Heritage art trail to be launched in Keighley town centre

The trail – which runs from Saturday, October 11, until Monday, November 17 – features paintings of town-centre landmarks by popular artist Kev Bell.

Each piece of artwork will be displayed at or near the historic site that inspired it.

Locations captured in the paintings include The Picture House, Central Hall, Cavendish Street, the Royal Arcade and Temperance Hall, now The Livery Rooms.

At each spot there will be notes written by historian Eddie Kelly, providing people with an insight into Keighley’s past.

Participants will be able to test their knowledge by answering questions on the back of the art trail map, with a chance to win shopping vouchers.

Running alongside the initiative is an age-banded art competition, open to all. Prizes will be on offer in each age category, and winning artwork is to be featured on the Keighley Business Improvement District (BID) website.

To mark the launch of the trail, a free family-friendly art workshop is taking place between 11am and 3pm on October 11 – in the Airedale Shopping Centre events zone, next to Costa Coffee. The workshop is open to artists of all ages and abilities.

Helen Robertshaw, Keighley BID manager, says: “Born and raised in Keighley, Kev has channelled his passion for his hometown into a fun collection of paintings depicting local landmarks.

“Each artwork is filled with hidden details for visitors to discover – from famous Keighley natives to local characters from Kev’s youth, plus a signature ladybird concealed within every painting.

“Kev’s paintings capture not just our beautiful buildings, but the spirit and stories of Keighley itself.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for residents and visitors to explore and learn about the heritage of Keighley town centre.”

Trail maps and full details of the paintings’ locations will be available via the Keighley BID website, under the Visit Keighley section, at keighleybid.com/keighley-heritage-art-trail

The trail maps have been sponsored by Keighley Town Council.

Helen adds: “Keighley BID extends special thanks to Kev for his generous contribution, Eddie Kelly for his interesting historical notes, the businesses that are hosting paintings and to Keighley Town Council for sponsoring the printing of trail maps.”

Kev’s artwork also features in an annual calendar that he produces, with all proceeds going to charities in the area. The Salvation Army and the Good Shepherd Centre in Keighley are amongst causes that have benefited.