Gallery unwraps festive favourites for art advent

Treasured favourites from the stunning Leeds Art Gallery collection are being unwrapped for a unique new “art advent” this month.

Members of the gallery’s team have selected their best-loved artworks and will be sharing their personal stories of why they love each one, with a different piece set to be unveiled each day throughout December.

The exhibition began today (Dec 1) with the unveiling of ‘Boar Lane, Leeds’ by the city’s famed John Atkinson Grimshaw.

Painted in Grimshaw’s signature style, the artwork was selected by a gallery visitor assistant who said: “This painting exudes the cold, wet and darkness of the winter, combined with the wonder and promise light and hope, through the twinkling coloured lights. The magic of light.”

Artworks have been chosen by people across the gallery team, with other examples including works by Auguste Rodin, Bridget Riley, Paul Nash and Andy Goldsworthy.

The exhibition is designed to mimic the tradition of an advent calendar, which is thought to stretch back to the 19^th century as a countdown to Christmas and the end of the year.

Each day at 12pm a new work will be revealed by a member of the team both in person and on the gallery’s Instagram page.

Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s executive member for economy, culture and education, said: “Some of these artworks have a very special place in the history of Leeds and are part of the city’s cultural heritage whilst others showcase the remarkable talents of contemporary artists.

“It’s always great for the people of Leeds to have new ways to discover and engage with the beautiful collection at Leeds Art Gallery.”

A Seasonal Cornucopia – selections from members of the Gallery team from Leeds Museums and Galleries collection runs until Jan 2 and is free to attend.

For more details please visit: Leeds Art Gallery – Leeds Museums & Galleries

ENDS