Ampleforth Abbey Showcase Local Artists in Summer Exhibition

The ‘North Yorkshire Open Studios Showcase’ will feature around thirty artists and makers from across the North Yorkshire region under one roof.

Gathered at Ampleforth, visitors will get the chance to view sculpture, paintings, photography, and ceramics with the opportunity to purchase pieces on display.

The exhibition takes place in Alban Roe House Visitor Centre, a short walk from the Grade I listed Abbey Church which is open to visitors. The Abbey grounds are also open to the public.

Ampleforth Abbey is home to a community of Benedictine monks, and featured in the exhibition will be artwork from Fr Martin, a former monk of Ampleforth, who died in 2015. Fr Martin was Art Master of Ampleforth College 1947-1981 and an accomplished oil painter who spent his free time painting. Much of his work captures scenes from around the Mediterranean.

The artist-run collective, North Yorkshire Open Studios (NYOS) is a not-for-profit community that works to support the hundreds of painters, sculptors, print-makers, jewellers, ceramicists, photographers, and creatives who live and work in North Yorkshire.

All the NYOS artists exhibiting recently opened their studios as part of the NYOS open studios weekend in June.

Other artists featured include: Sarah Sharpe, Heather Croft, Garth Bayley, Gill Kirk, Eric Moss, Jane Took, Peter Finch, Dotty Earl, Sherry Doyal, Shirley Hudson, Sally Parkinfitton and Jo Garlick.

Garth Bayley, Project Manager for North Yorkshire Open Studios said: ‘I’m thrilled to be able to showcase a selection of artists exhibiting in this fantastic venue. This is a great opportunity to see a selection of work from each artist and chat to the invigilating artists about their practice. It’s a great showcase of creativity in the area.’

Jo Little, Ampleforth Abbey Marketing & Communications Manager said: “We can’t wait to welcome people to this showcase of wonderful art and hope new visitors to the Abbey will enjoy exploring the church and grounds while they’re here.”

The exhibition runs from July 19-28, 10am-5pm daily at Ampleforth Abbey Visitor Centre. Free entry and parking. Refreshments available in the Tea Room.