The Burley in Wharfedale Community Trust commissioned renowned local artist, Ian Middleton over a year ago to create a painting of the the village, to serve as a legacy work.

It was stimulated by the success of his painting of ‘Yorkshire’ for which prints have now sold in over 20 different countries.

A colourful and very different contemporary piece of art, representing all facets of the village and it’s history was required to be permanently displayed in the public library.

Ian agreed to donate the 4ft wide work, on canvas, to the Trust for free and at the same time make available prints of both the drawing and the painting, at a much reduced cost to normal. The Trust wanted images of the end product to be accessible at affordable prices to the whole community. Ian is quoted as saying ‘I felt very honoured at the Trust wanting me to be responsible for this project and wanted to do all I could to support the fabulous and tireless work which all those involved contribute” Early on, Ian took the very unusual step of sharing the painting’s progress with the community and accepting input and advice along the way. It was displayed and worked on regularly at the Burley library and exhibited at both the Ilkley art Show as well as the Burley Festival.

The public were invited to place a dab of oil paint on their favourite spot in Burley plus record their names in Ian’s actual workbook on the painting which covers his ideas and sketches. Truly, a community piece of art in every way.

The painting will be formally launched on 1st December 2018 at the Burley Christmas lights switch on. It will be displayed for the first time in it’s frame with prints alongside other mementos such as coasters. There will also be a mini exhibition at the Queens Hall, displaying how it was made and supportive slide show.