Softly serenaded by the bells of York Minster, the streets of the city teem with sparkling lights and merry shoppers. It is thus with delight that we usher in the warmth and joyful spirit of the Christmas season. This month we brightly share a flurry of festive updates, from news of acclaimed artists to the opening of our latest exhibition—and of course—a radiant new collection of paintings to brighten even the darkest of evenings.

It is with great pleasure that we welcome renowned contemporary artist Andrew Talbot to York Fine Arts. One of the UK’s most highly sought after hyperrealist painters of today, British artist Andrew Talbot masterfully paints scenes that seem to slow time itself, giving perspective and weight to the narratives of ordinary places and objects. With a painstakingly methodical and unhurried approach, Andrew can take weeks to finish each painting, working on just one piece at any given time. The scarcity of his work because of this process coupled with overwhelming demand has seen his most devout collectors go so far as to queue overnight for his sellout exhibitions. We couldn’t be happier to have an artist of such standing and talent join the York Fine Arts fold.

Eagle-eared listeners may have been delighted to hear none other than our very own contemporary artist Michael John Ashcroft on their radios this week. Speaking with Dr Sian Williams for her show ‘Life Changing’ on BBC Radio 4, Michael spoke at length about some of the events that first pushed him to become a professional artist, ultimately changing the course of his life forever. For those who may have missed the live show, the episode can be found on BBC iPlayer.

Fully embracing the festive spirit, this Friday the gallery opens its final exhibition of the year, ‘A Collector’s Christmas’. Reflecting the timeless excitement and wonder of the season, this mixed show presents an outstanding selection of work from some of the gallery’s biggest names in contemporary British fine art, including Edward Hersey, Daniel Van der Putten, Colin Wilson, Raymond Campbell and Tina Spratt. There’s never been a more fitting time of year to raise a glass to the quality and heritage of fine art—and perhaps find that next addition to your own collection or that of a loved one.

Our team have been hard at work behind the scenes spreading Christmas cheer throughout the gallery, making it a warm and welcoming place for all over the festive period. Throughout this time, will be open our usual hours with the exception of the following:

Wednesday, 24 December (Christmas Eve): 10:00am-12:00pm
Thursday, 25 December (Christmas Day): CLOSED
Friday, 26 December (Boxing Day): CLOSED
Wednesday, 31 December (New Year’s Eve): 10:00am-2:00pm
Thursday, 1 January (New Year’s Day): CLOSED

To help ensure all deliveries arrive in time for Christmas, our last day for international orders is Friday, 12th of December. For shipping within the UK, orders will need to be placed no later than noon on Monday, 22nd December.

Whether it’s keeping a purchase a surprise or adding a bow or handwritten note to your order, please don’t hesitate to let us know if there’s anything we can do to help make things that little more special.

Brimming with excitement, anticipation and a rich collection of new artwork, this month the gallery has welcomed paintings from Clare Haley, Colin Wilson, Andrew Talbot, Alan Smith, Philip Short,
Gallery Director