Ilkley Art Trail is appealing to home-owners in central Ilkley who would be willing to open up their downstairs rooms for visiting artists.

The Trail, now in its fourth year, puts on a brilliant show of original art from around the region in assorted venues across the town.

Trail organisers are appealing to home-owners in the town centre, following requests from visitors last year to have more art on show in central Ilkley.

As well as private houses opening up as exhibition spaces, last year’s locations ranged from shops, hotels and pubs to therapy rooms and a sculptor’s shed.

Susan McIntosh welcomed two artists to her home on Kings Road last year.

She said: “I enjoyed the whole experience very much, first meeting two delightful artists and seeing their work, then to see two rooms in my home being transformed with interesting art and jewellery into a mini gallery.

“We received lots of positive comments from visitors about the art and the art in its setting – people liked seeing art in a home and seeing a bit of a house they would not have seen before.

“I value the idea of the Ilkley Art Trail and so was happy to be part of it.”

Textile artist Linda Dewart, has opened up her home since the Trail began in 2011. She shows her own work alongside the work of up to four guest artists.

She said she wouldn’t hesitate to do it again. “All the other artists that have taken part have all been totally delightful and the people who come have been very nice as well,” she said.

“If there are several artists there’s more to see and it takes the pressure off a little bit that people are making a big effort to come and see you.”

Organisers are very interested to hear from anyone who thinks they may be able to help out during this year’s Ilkley Art Trail, which runs from October 8 to 12, 2014. Either e-mail ilkleyarttrail @gmail.com, or call organiser Lorna Bird for an informal chat on 07789 681862.

All artists’ work is insured by the artist and artists will work with homeowners on display potential.

Public liability insurance is provided for the duration at all venues by the Trail and signage is provided to separate off any private areas not for use.