A sculpture of a giant hare, the creation of the People’s Painting, speed embroidery and a fully working life-size game of Operation were just some of the highlights of The Art Market, which welcomed more than 2000 art lovers to York in October.
The three day art, design and contemporary craft fair at York Racecourse was officially opened by Laura Turner, Curator of Art at York Art Gallery with VIP guests of honour the Sheriff and Sheriff’s Lady, Mr Brian and Mrs Debora Smith.
Greg McGee owner of York contemporary art gallery ‘According to McGee’, praised the quality and diversity of the show as he judged the work of more than 100 artists, including paintings, ceramics, jewellery, wearable art and sculptures, which were on sale from £5 to £20,000.
Commenting on the work of Andy Fullalove from Holmfirth, who won the Outstanding Artist award, Greg McGee said: “I’m a big fan of painting – it’s always been a cool art form as it’s tangible and you can take it home with you. I appreciate well-made work, particularly when it’s provocative and contemporary, and that’s exactly what Andy’s work achieves.”
The Best Newcomer award went to 23-year-old Freya Stockford also from Holmfirth. Freya was one of 12 art graduates who received free exhibition space and mentoring from professional artists as part of the Art Market’s RAW Graduate Award programme.
Sculptor Brendan Hesmondhalgh, one of the organisers of the Art Market said: “This has been a tremendous show and we’re delighted that local people have supported our super-talented artists who’ve come from all over the UK. We’ve worked hard to make the event exciting and interesting with something for everyone. It has given people the chance to interact with and meet the makers – to understand their thinking behind pieces of art and share their inspiration.”
The Art Market is holding its next events on 22nd and 29th November 2015 in Holmfirth.
For more information visit www.artmarkets.co.uk
