Member Article

Artist draws on Cotton Mill’s past to create unique and inspiring artworks

A successful and talented artist from Yorkshire has been commissioned by award-winning property company Rushbond, which is behind the transformation of The Cotton Mill in Skipton into 39 loft-style apartments, to create a number of standout and unique artworks to adorn the walls of the historic former mill which forms the final phase in the amazing restoration of a vast textile complex known collectively as Belle Vue Mills.

29 year old Tom Duxbury, who grew up in the Yorkshire Dales, between Bingley and Skipton, has attributed much of his inspiration to the area, reproducing in his own distinct way the lyrical landscapes of the north.

His powerful and enticing work has been selected to embellish book covers for publisher Vintage Classics, and it has also been chosen to visually complement the poetry of 2009 poet laureate, Carol Ann Duffy. In 2014, Tom achieved an illustration award from the prestigious Victoria & Albert museum and is currently working for publishing houses Hodder and Stoughton and John Murray Press in London.

Tom has created four pieces that will take pride of place within the hallways of The Cotton Mill, which is the final part of the popular Belle Vue Mills development in the heart of Skipton.

Rushbond’s creative assistant, Georgina Maud, said: “We have been very eager to ensure that The Cotton Mill continues to contribute creatively to the town, whilst also celebrating its unique heritage as part of the legendary Belle Vue Mills.

“The Dewhurst family at Belle Vue Mills produced the innovative Sylko cotton thread, which put Skipton on the map globally across the textile industry. The mill has played a huge part in the lives of so many people throughout the years and was a major employer for generations, so its creative evolution therefore deserves recognition.”

Tom says: “The meandering Airedale valley, rich in natural, historical, and literary wonders, is an idiosyncratic landscape, which never fails to inspire. It’s been a privilege to craft these pieces for The Cotton Mill, and I hope that the people who are going to be making it their home will enjoy them as much as I have.”

Richard Baker from Rushbond, adds: “These historic and attractive buildings will now become a much-loved home for many people, and Tom’s work a part of the building’s fabric. We have strived to take a sensitive and considered approach to the redevelopment of this extraordinary collection of buildings, and Tom’s artwork will help to make The Cotton Mill a truly unique place to live.”

The Cotton Mill is part of the Belle Vue Mills development which also includes Glista Mills, Eller House, and the recently completed McCarthy and Stone development, known as Mallory Court, which provide a mix of new and converted apartments.

For more information about the 39 luxury loft-style apartments, contact Dacre Son and Hartley’s Skipton office on 01756 701010 or register interest at www.thecottonmill.co.uk

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Emma Mortimer .