Claire from Claire Baxter Gallery in llkley has been named the Official Artist for Yorkshire Day 2025 and has unveiled her special celebratory original painting to mark the occasion.
Ilkley has the honour of co-hosting this year’s official Yorkshire Day civic celebration, the centrepiece of Yorkshire Day, on Friday 1st August, alongside Bradford, the UK City of Culture 2025 and Claire was commissioned to produce a piece of art to capture the spirit of Ilkley and to commemorate the weekend festivities.
Claire’s oil painting depicts a heartwarming scene at Ilkley Bandstand, the hub of the town, and captures a moment of everyday joy and community spirit with a brass band playing enthusiastically whilst children play happily on the grass under fluttering bunting.
It reflects her signature style; quirky, whimsical scenes of “Proper Yorkshire Folk” in real-life settings, brimming with humour and local pride. By focusing on Ilkley Bandstand, she pays homage to a much-loved landmark in the town which will play a pivotal role in the Yorkshire Day weekend celebrations.
There are a limited edition of 100 signed and certified prints of the painting, to fit a 10” x 10” frame, available mounted for £45 and framed for £75, and 10% of all sales will go to support Ilkley Bandstand 2000 Trust until 31st December 2025, helping fund future community events in the town centre.
Martin Smith, Chair of the Ilkley Bandstand 2000 Trust said:
“Claire’s painting is just wonderful. She’s captured the beating heart of the bandstand and you can almost hear the music playing and the children laughing. We’re delighted that Claire has chosen to support the Ilkley Bandstand 2000 Trust for the rest of this year as each purchase will directly support more moments of joy and community gathering in our town. It’s the perfect way to blend art, celebration and legacy.”
Claire said:
“Since moving into Ilkley this year, I have loved getting fully involved with the local community and working with amazing people in a fantastic town. It’s a true privilege to be the Official Artist for Yorkshire Day and to celebrate it in Ilkley. We’re absolutely thrilled to contribute to the future of the bandstand, which plays such a vital role in the heart of the town.”
Both the original and the prints are available to purchase now at her Gallery on 13 Leeds Road or via her website. Claire will also be at the Yorkshire Market on The Grove on Saturday 2nd August from 10am-8pm for purchases or pre-ordered collections.
For all details, visit her website at: www.clairebaxterfineart.co.uk
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