Art in the Dale began in 2022 with a group of Malhamdale-based artists coming together to exhibit their work in the beautiful surroundings of St Michael's church. They find inspiration in the light and landscape here in Malhamdale, and have exhibited painting, etching, collage, feltwork, photography, stained glass, and wrought iron work. Each year the children of Kirkby-in-Malhamdale primary school have also exhibited work, and there have been themed music and poetry events to accompany the art exhibition, and in 2024 we had a special focus on the life and work of Bill Wild, the Malhamdale Blacksmith for nearly 40 years.
Artists exhibiting in 2026 include: Fiona Armer, Annabelle Bradley, Bev Hicks, Katherine Holmes, Judy Metcalfe, Jane Midgley, Phoebe Scott, Stephen Waterhouse, and members of Malhamdale Art Group. New work will be on display and for sale. This year we have a focus on young artists, and textile work created by Skipton Girls' High School pupils will be on display, also work by two University fine art students: Hannah Greer and Molly Glendinning.
Admission to the exhibition is free, though we would very much appreciate donations to support our running costs, including the ongoing costs of maintaining this beautiful grade one listed church.
A strong theme that runs through these exhibitions is a sense of connection with place, and with each other. The beauty of the landscape, the light, the colours, and the peace to be found here in Malhamdale inspires our creativity. Our artists, all of whom are resident in or have strong links with Malhamdale have responded to the landscape in a wide variety of media, and we hope that you will share with us in the joy of this creativity.