Well folks, we made it.
The winter season is now officially over and everything seems to have sprung into action lately.
The same can be said for all the art events going on in York this month.
So here I am in the nick of time to keep you clued up on all the splendid spectacles to be sighted on the art scene this April.
There is a lot to take in so don’t delay – the real April fool is the one who doesn’t make the most of the inspiring culture to be caught in the city this month…
York Open Studios
York Open Studios returns for two weekends of seemingly endless opportunities to discover art in the city.
An enormous number and variety of practising artists working within a ten-mile radius of York will open their doors to the curious public.
It takes place from Friday, April 15 to Sunday April 17, and Saturday April 23 to Sunday April 24.
For a full list of participants, go to the York Open Studios website.
Other news
Before I regale you with news of all the fantastic exhibitions going on, I’d first like to say congratulations to Linda Day of Bootham, winner of the Flood Lights raffle run by the Braithwaite Gallery last month.
The raffle, which was part of the York Flood Appeal, contributed to the tremendous sum of £1,192 which has been raised for York victims of the Boxing Day floods.
Congratulations to Linda and thanks to all those involved in the fundraising.
Exhibitions
The Aesthetica Art Prize @ York St. Marys
From April 14 this free exhibition will be bringing an amazing variety of cutting-edge and contemporary artworks to York.
The exhibition, run in conjunction with the Aesthestica Art Prize, promises to be refreshing and inspiring, showcasing the best in emerging and established artistic talent from around the globe.
Truth and Memory @ York Art Gallery
Last month saw the arrival in York of the largest exhibition of First World War art for nearly 100 years.
Being the only venue outside of London to display this unique and seriously moving collection of artwork, York Art Gallery finds itself in a privileged position of national significance.
Take advantage of the opportunity to see this incredible show right on your doorstep.
Colour, Surface, Description @ Kunsthuis Contemporary Gallery
It is well worth making the trip to the Kunsthuis Contemporary Art Gallery at Dutch House in Crayke this month.
The new exhibition, Colour, Surface, Description, showcases a variety of staggering artworks from all around the UK.
At this exhibition you’ll find beautifully bright colours, bold shapes and wonderfully arresting textures that will get you in the mood for a dazzling spring.
Bartosz Beda @ The New School House Gallery
The picturesque New School House Gallery on Peasholme Green welcomes the award winning art of Bartosz Beda to its walls this month.
Originally from Poland and now living in the North of England, the prize winning and internationally recognised artist will be exhibiting some of his latest work at the exhibition, Feeling Good About Things, running until April 27.
Keith Roper @ Kentmere House Gallery
Lincolnshire native Keith Roper will be bringing some new additions to Kentmere House Gallery this month.
His modest and unpretentious landscapes and captivating skyscapes are quiet, subtle and unassumingly astonishing, capturing the atmosphere of the colourful British countryside with charming skill.
Andy Fullalove @ According To McGee
The internationally admired work of one of the foremost colourists of northern contemporary painting will be on show at According To McGee Gallery till April 30.
The opening was hosted by the artist himself, who has exhibited in galleries from York to New York, and offers a highly anticipated collection of original pieces.
Spring Exhibition @ Blue Tree Gallery
Just as the weather warms up the Blue Tree Gallery on Bootham will be celebrating seasonal transitions with a Spring themed exhibition running until May 7.
Featuring the work of several local artists, this show’s varied and imaginative representations of familiar summery sights are guaranteed to get you in the mood for the warmer months to come.
Get Creative
Sketchbook Circle @ York Art Gallery
The regular informal art meet up will be taking place on Wed 13 at York Art Gallery. Drop in to the social session for £5 plus galley admission fees.
Art for Wellbeing @ York Art Gallery
Another drop in art session will run on Sun 24 April from 12.30pm–3pm. For £5 plus gallery admission, you can join in with this all-welcoming event.
Studio Drop-Ins @ York Art Gallery
For a family friendly creative activity, drop in to one of the workshops on Sat 16 between 11am-1pm and 2pm-4pm. All are welcome to drop by and have a go at making a collage inspired by painter and printmaker, Mark Hearld.
Truth and Memory – WWI Art Talk @ York Art Gallery
Finally, I’ve already told you to take advantage of the chance to see the most significant exhibition of First World War art for nearly 100 years at York Art Gallery.
Now take the opportunity to find out more about it from the curator himself, Richard Slocombe of the Imperial War Museum.
This fascinating art history talk will take place on Thursday 21 April between 6.30pm-7.30pm. Tickets are £8 and are available from Eventbrite.
As you can see, we’re being spoilt for choice with art to take advantage of this month. There is a lot do, more to see and so much to find out. With all that to fit in to just one month, the best advice that I can give you is this: get going!
So go on – what are you waiting for?!