Our Fondest Farewell

It is with the greatest sadness that we share the news of our Director Alan Short’s recent passing. With incomparable dedication, Alan offered a warm welcome, engaging conversation and a firm handshake to hundreds of thousands of visitors over the years as he passionately shared the joys of fine art. York Fine Arts and you, its supporters, were truly one of his life’s greatest pleasures.

As Alan built so many long-lasting relationships with our clients, artists and neighbours over the years, we appreciate that some may wish to personally pay their respects. As such, his family have published details of the funeral arrangements to open the celebration of his life and legacy to all who wish to do so.

The funeral service will take place at York Crematorium on Wednesday, the 25th of October 2023 at 11:00am. In a tribute to Alan’s love of York Fine Arts and his decades of devoted leadership, the funeral cortege will pass and briefly pause at the gallery at approximately 10:00am. All are invited to join as we take this opportunity to bid farewell to Alan as he leaves the gallery for the last time. 

For those wishing to honour Alan’s legacy by way of a message of condolence or charitable donation, a memorial page has been created. JustGiving pages have also been set up in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie and St Leonard’s Hospice, all of whom provided remarkable comfort and support to Alan and his family. These may be accessed from the memorial page, which may be accessed here: https://www.yorkfinearts.co.uk/alan-short.  

For any additional details or enquiries, please contact the gallery.

Alan’s family and the rest of the York Fine Arts team thank you for your support during this challenging time but very much hope Alan’s positivity, enthusiasm and extraordinary legacy will remain a light to all.