A NEW contemporary art gallery has opened in the heart of Ilkley.
Palette Gallery officially welcomed its first visitors on Saturday, July 25. The gallery is owned and managed by Nick Hockney, nephew of the artist David Hockney.
Located at 42A Back of The Grove, Palette Gallery showcases a programme of curated exhibitions, events and artist talks. The gallery aims to make collecting art more accessible, whether visitors are buying their first piece or adding to an existing collection.
Having grown up surrounded by art, Nick Hockney brings first-hand knowledge of the art world and its market. He is committed to helping buyers understand the works they purchase, with every artwork accompanied by an information pack detailing the artist, the work and its context.
Palette Gallery is built around a simple philosophy. It only sells artwork the team genuinely values, does not favour any particular artist or style and presents each piece alongside its story. The gallery describes itself as being "art lovers first, dealers second."
The gallery occupies a bright, welcoming space that was formerly Luxe Beauty Salon. Its different rooms allow for a varied display of artwork, complemented by carefully chosen furniture that has been selected to enhance the surroundings rather than create a traditional white gallery space. Seating throughout encourages visitors to spend time with the artwork, while private viewings are available for individuals, families and friends.
As far as possible, the gallery has used local suppliers for its furniture and objects, framing, signage, electrical work and joinery, reflecting its commitment to supporting independent businesses.
Alongside artwork ranging from around £200 to £25,000, Palette Gallery also offers a curation and sourcing service through its worldwide network of contacts. The gallery can source everything from original posters to major works by artists including David Hockney and Andy Warhol.
Palette Gallery also plans to champion local artists, alongside original art, limited edition prints and vintage posters. It is already collaborating with Jo at Tinker Gallery, Helen Brayshaw and Louise Hepworth Wood on the forthcoming Women in Art event in September. The gallery is also working with the print and photography groups at Outside the Box and the New Muse group of young artists, whose work features in its opening exhibitions.
Looking ahead, the gallery hopes to work with local schools, including Moorfield School and Ilkley Grammar School, to encourage more young people to engage with art. Nick says this was inspired by advice from his uncle, David Hockney, who encouraged him to "get the kids involved." The gallery believes art should be part of children's everyday lives and hopes to inspire the next generation of collectors and artists.
Nick Hockney said: "Opening Palette Gallery is something I have wanted to do for a long time and it's great to finally welcome people through the doors.
"My aim is to make art accessible and affordable. I want people to come in, take their time and find something they genuinely connect with. There isn't anything here that I wouldn't be happy to have on my own walls and I want people to love having the art in their own homes.
"Ilkley has a strong arts community and it's important that galleries work together. We want Palette Gallery to play an active part in that community by working with other galleries, artists and local organisations to help make art accessible to as many people as possible."
Palette's next event is Women in Art at All Saints' Church in September and the gallery is also planning a Hockney celebration in 2027.
Palette Gallery is located at 42A Back of The Grove, Ilkley, LS29 9EE. Visit: www.palette.art
