A new contemporary art gallery has opened in the heart of Ilkley, with a focus on making art more accessible for collectors and supporting local artists.
Palette Gallery officially welcomed its first visitors on Saturday, 25th July. Located at 42A Back of The Grove, the gallery is owned and managed by Nick Hockney, nephew of renowned British artist David Hockney. The new gallery features a programme of curated exhibitions, artist talks and events, with artwork ranging from around £200 to £25,000. It aims to appeal to both first-time buyers and experienced collectors by providing information about every artwork, including details about the artist, the piece and its background. Nick, who grew up surrounded by art, says the gallery is built around a simple philosophy of only exhibiting work the team genuinely values, regardless of artist or style. Palette Gallery has transformed the former Luxe Beauty Salon into a bright exhibition space designed to encourage visitors to spend time exploring the artwork. Comfortable seating is available throughout the gallery, while private viewings can also be arranged for individuals, families and groups. The gallery has also made a conscious effort to support independent businesses during its refurbishment, using local suppliers for framing, signage, joinery, electrical work, furniture and decorative objects wherever possible. In addition to its exhibitions, Palette Gallery offers an art sourcing and curation service through an international network of contacts. The service can help buyers find everything from original vintage posters to works by artists including David Hockney and Andy Warhol. Supporting Yorkshire's creative community is another key aim. Alongside exhibiting local artists, the gallery is already working with Tinker Gallery, Helen Brayshaw and Louise Hepworth Wood on the upcoming Women in Art event in September. It is also collaborating with the print and photography groups at Outside the Box and the New Muse group of young artists, whose work features in the opening exhibitions. Looking ahead, Nick hopes to work with local schools, including Moorfield School and Ilkley Grammar School, to encourage more young people to engage with art. He said the idea was inspired by advice from his uncle, David Hockney, who encouraged him to "get the kids involved". Nick Hockney said: "Opening Palette Gallery is something I have wanted to do for a long time and it's great to finally welcome people through the doors. "My aim is to make art accessible and affordable. "I want people to come in, take their time and find something they genuinely connect with. "There isn't anything here that I wouldn't be happy to have on my own walls and I want people to love having the art in their own homes. "Ilkley has a strong arts community and it's important that galleries work together. "We want Palette Gallery to play an active part in that community by working with other galleries, artists and local organisations to help make art accessible to as many people as possible." The gallery's next event will be Women in Art at All Saints' Church in September, while plans are also underway for a celebration of David Hockney's work in 2027.
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