A Brentford Arts Centre is celebrating the launch of a new children's picture book with an exhibition of its story and illustrations.

Watermans in Brentford will host an exhibition for 101 Dishes for the Emperor at the Riverside Gallery from June 1 – 26.

The story is based on a tale from 16th century India in which a little boy dares to invite the Emperor to dinner. An old family tale that its writer Soni Zuberi Shah was told by her father, Soni wanted to preserve this oral tradition and write the story down for future generations.

Illustrated by Dr. Fatima Zahra Hassan in a unique style that mixes contemporary and traditional Mughal miniature painting, the result is a beautifully made book about sharing, community and good food.

An interactive display of 101 Dishes for the Emperor illustrations at the Riverside Gallery exhibition will allow the story to be presented in English, Urdu, Bengali and Hindi.  

Books will be available to buy at the exhibition and there will be a book signing when author Soni Zuberi Shah and illustrator Dr Fatima Zahra Hassan attend the exhibition on Saturday, June 11, between 4 – 7pm as part of the Watermans Weekender event.

Attendees can have a tour of the art show, watch a demonstration of miniature painting and children can take part in art activities all for FREE (no ticket required).

Jan Lennox, Director, Watermans said:"101 Dishes for the Emperor is a fabulous example of bringing the community together through participation in the arts. This is what Watermans and Creative People & Places is all about this project will have a positive impact on the communities that need it most."