A RAY of sunshine is set to light up Ilkley as a new “Solar” art gallery opens at the Manor House museum.

The Solar Gallery opens to the public on Saturday March 30 with its inaugural exhibition showcasing work from most of the 30 founding artists.

It takes place in the upstairs eastern gallery and will open every weekend the Manor House is open, from 11am to 4pm.

The gallery is officially launched at a private view by Silsden man Colin Neville, founder of “Not Just Hockney”, an online visual guide to artists with links to the whole Bradford district.

The gallery runs as a joint partnership between the Manor House Trust and Ilkley Arts with the aim of running a rolling programme of varied high-end exhibitions.

“We are trying lots of different offers to the public at the House,” said Nick Robinson, Operations Manager of the Manor House Trust.

“We have a thriving art community and as the Manor House was gifted to the town as both a museum and art gallery, it seems fitting to be promoting the works of local and regional artists.

“At the same time we will be celebrating our fascinating heritage.”

The first exhibition runs until June 23.

The main upstairs gallery remains available for rent for events and exhibitions.

For more information on the Solar Gallery visit www.ilkleymanorhouse.org (what’s on section).