Art in the Dale began in 2022 with a group of Malhamdale-based artists coming together to exhibit their work in St Michael's church. They find inspiration in the light and landscape here, and have exhibited painting, etching, collage, feltwork, photography, stained glass, and wrought iron work. Each year the children of Kirkby-in-Malhamdale primary school have also exhibited work, and there have been themed music and poetry events to accompany the art exhibition. In 2024 we had a special focus on the life and work of Bill Wild, the Malhamdale Blacksmith for nearly 40 years.
In 2025 the fourth Art in the Dale exhibition will take place from 19th to 22rd June, open 9am to 5pm each day. We will have a wide range of original artwork on display and for sale, including paintings in watercolour and oils, etchings, photography, stained glass pieces, cyanotype printing, sculpture, and wrought-iron work. Artists confirmed so far: Fiona Armer, Annabelle Bradley, Bev Hicks, Katherine Holmes, Cindy Metcalfe, Judy Metcalfe, Jane Midgley, Phoebe Scott, Stephen Waterhouse, and members of Malhamdale Art Group. We will also have a special exhibition of artwork inspired by Jean Harrison poetry from The Folly Museum in Settle. Admission to the exhibition is free, though we would very much appreciate donations to support our running costs, including the ongoing costs of maintaining this beautiful grade one listed church.