Ilkley fountain: Model unveiled as fundraising continues

The model of Juliet Gutch's design has been made from galvanised steel

A model of a fountain set to be positioned in the centre of Ilkley has gone on display at an art gallery.

The scale model is on show at the Tinker Gallery alongside artworks which have been donated to help fund it.

Charity Improving Ilkley invited local artists to donate pieces which will be on show until 20 April, when the auction is due to take place.

Those who bid over £250 will be invited to have their names displayed by the fountain at the top of Brook Street.

The model of galvanised and etched steel is based on a design by Juliet Gutch and made by James Wilkinson, based near Boroughbridge.

Ms Gutch's design for the statue will use a gravity-fed system which will recycle water coming down the hill from Ilkley Moor.

Joanne Tinker, artist and owner of the Tinker Gallery, said: "We are delighted to be the first venue to showcase the model of the beautiful fountain and what a stunning and very appropriate landmark for Ilkley's town centre.

Artworks have gone on display which will be auctioned off to raise money for the project

"The art auction is bound to be exciting and is a fantastic opportunity to get your hands on original artwork, whilst in addition donating to this worthwhile cause."

Artist Lucia Smith donated a painting called Yorkshire Water.

Speaking of the fountain design, she said: "This beautiful, fabulous, thoughtful sculpture will connect so many things: the arts and culture of our town, our community, the moor, the river, the many ghylls and becks, the fragile environment and its timelessness.

"And water, - the very thing of life."

Louise Hepworth-Wood of Improving Ilkley said: "It is so wonderful that the artist community has come together in support of our project.

"The response has been incredible. All proceeds will go towards the fountain fundraising initiative which Improving Ilkley aim to bring to fruition this year."

The artists who have donated work are all from the local area and include Nicky Dyson, Gill Gilroy, Joanne Tinker, Helen Brayshaw and Ian Smith.