Artists inspired by moors see sales at gallery rise by 50pc

The Inspired By...Gallery was launched five years ago as part of a major revamp of the Moors National Park Centre at Danby to give local artists the chance to exhibit their work to the public.

The North York Moors National Park Authority has revealed the gallery’s sales were up 50 per cent throughout last year compared with the previous 12 months, rising from £22,787 to £34,082.

The authority’s exhibitions and events co-ordinator, Sally Smith, has helped market the gallery and attract a range of artistic talent.

She said: “The gallery has increased in popularity over recent years and has established a well deserved reputation for quality – this is reflected in the amount of art sold which increased by around 50 per cent in 2011. We are really excited by the outstanding series of exhibitions and events we have lined up for 2012, which is the 60th anniversary of the North York Moors National Park.”

Up to 150 artists stage exhibitions at the gallery each year, and several have secured private commissions. The current exhibition features work by artist Andrew Hutchinson, although the centre is only open at weekends until March.

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