Welcome to Blake250

BLAKE 250 is a series of events celebrating the 250th anniversary of the birth of mercurial English poet, artist and mystic William Blake.

William Blake - poet, painter, visionary, and mystic - died in Charing Cross, London, at precisely 6pm on 12th August 1827, singing "songs of joy and triumph" as he did so. In his lifetime he was largely unrecognised, but in the 250 years since his death he has become one of the most famous and influential artistic figures in English history, rivalling even Charles Dickens as the greatest literary figure since William Shakespeare. Yet despite his immense popularity, Blake has remained the people's poet. There are as many different Blake's as there are people appreciating Blake. There is no "correct" Blake, but only the Blake which one personally needs. Those who come under his spell emerge with not only with the benefit of his artistic prowess and power, but with a greater understanding of themselves. As such, whether he is merely the messiah of the written word, or in fact a conduit for some deep and personal spiritual growth, William Blake's influence has filtered through into every aspect of contemporary art, from poetry and prose, to popular music, film, theatre and multimedia.

Here now is the opportunity to help us celebrate this influence. 

The festival is the brainchild of, and is being presided over by Jude Rawlins. Jude Rawlins is best known as lead singer and songwriter of London based rock band Subterraneans, but is also an acclaimed author whose books include the controversial 2005 collection "Divine Images: The Words of William Blake". 

We are constantly updating the full programme of events for Blake 250. Any suggestions or contributions? Please email us at Blake250@London.com 


"I will not cease from Mental Fight,
Nor shall my sword sleep in my hand,
Till we have built Jerusalem
In England's green and pleasant land."