Chapel of art

AS the Hepworth Wakefield opens its doors to the public this weekend, budding artists from across the city hope the gallery will boost the popularity of their groups.

To coincide with its launch of Tate work, its historic neighbour Chantry Chapel will host a week-long free exhibition for the first time.

Amateur art and photography will go on show to promote the work of Gallery Arts and also attract visitors to the medieval building.

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The group was founded three years ago by Brian Holding to give residents a chance to share their work with the public and currently it has nine members who create in their spare time.

And Mr Holding aims to make the most of the expected influx of tourists in the city next week.

Mr Holding, 67, of Wrenthorpe, said: “To have a gallery like this on our doorstep is fantastic. It is great news and will help amateur groups like us as it promotes art in Wakefield.

“There is a lot of talent out there and we want to help recognise it. We want people to be inspired by what they see then realise they can create art themselves.

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“I set the group up so people can display their work and allow others to enjoy it. I enjoy talking about it and engaging people with the art.”

The Art In The Chapel event will run from Saturday to May 28 and will be open from 10am to 4pm. The collection will range from traditional to contemporary presentations including photography, watercolour, oil and acrylic paintings.

Visitors will also be able to take in the views of the historic chapel during an open day on Monday, May 30, from 11am to 3pm, and then from 1pm to 3pm every Wednesday until August.

The chapel, which forms a buttress to Wakefield’s medieval stone bridge, was first licensed in 1356 and now includes space for open displays.

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The exhibition will also form part of the Wakefield Art Walk event, which will see exhibitions on show from 5pm to 9pm at various sites across the city, including the Hepworth Wakefield.

For more details visit www. gallery-arts.co.uk