Next Thornton Art Trail in 2025 to be 'bigger and better'

The Thornton Art Trail saw visitors follow maps throughout the village and discover artwork by 40 different local artists.

It was showcased anywhere from homes and gardens to the birthplace of the Bronte sisters.

Other venues included Thornton Community Centre, South Square Centre, The Apothecary Gallery, and Sapgate Gardens.

Work is now underway to bring the art trail back to Thornton in 2025 - when the district comes alive with UK City of Culture celebrations.

Patrick Whitehead, printmaker and owner at The Apothecary Gallery (Image: UGC)

The trail featured photography, poetry, collage, printmaking, monotypes, sculpture, collage, mixed media, acrylics, illustration, and even murals.

Patrick Whitehead, owner of The Apothecary Gallery, said: “The Gallery was bustling from the moment we opened the doors until we finally closed at 5pm. 

“I enjoyed chatting with the visitors and many had come from across West Yorkshire including Todmorden, Sowerby Bridge, Otley and even York and Harrogate. 

Beryl Robinson's artwork (Image: UGC)

“Everyone was enthusiastic about the Art Trail and all said that they hoped next year’s event would be over a weekend. It was a hugely successful and enjoyable event. The total number of visitors was way beyond my expectations.”

Hundreds of visitors were welcomed with information - such as directions and maps - from volunteers from the village and Bradford 2025.

Local artist Jess Swift painted a huge abstract canvas in Sapgate Gardens - where art lovers regularly re-visited to see her progress live.

Helen Trevisiol Duff, pictured next to her artwork (Image: UGC)

One visitor said: “I've never seen a painter in action before. I'm in awe of watching the way the painting begins and Jess’ imagination takes over. I was proud to wander around our village and view such a fantastic range of artistic and creative talents. It was lovely to nose in their sketchbooks and watch Jess work.”

(Image: UGC)

Another visitor was overheard saying: “Thornton is the new Saltaire”.

Other displays included creative pieces by the textile department at Bradford College, a watercolour by Helen Trevisiol Duff, an exhibition from well known figurative artist Doug Binder, and artist Adam Holt at The Bronte Stables’ airbnb. 

Artist Doug Binder (Image: UGC)

Artist and organiser Jess told the T&A: “The turnout was more than we had imagined for an event we had pieced together in just six weeks. 

“Myself and the organisers are eager to make next year bigger and better, and the feedback we have received has been inspiring! We are still, nearly two weeks after the event, getting emails and messages of support and interest. Get ready for The Thornton Art Trail 2025!”

The Thornton Art Trail was organised by Bev Morton, Ian Tothill, Helen Trevisiol Duff, Patrick Whitehead, Jess Swift and Nushin Hussain.