Claire Baxter Gallery, with galleries in Ilkley and Knaresborough, has announced this week the closure of the Ilkley gallery due to the increased demand running two galleries, and Claire's wish to spend more time painting.
In a video post on the companies Facebook page, Claire shared the news giving an insights into where the Clare Baxter brand and galleries are going to go:
"I wanted to use this opportunity to bring some ideas that I've got moving forward into 2026.
"One question I get asked all the time is, when do you get the chance to paint, And I really, really struggle to answer because the reality is. I just don't have the time to paint."
Claire talks of plans to be more accessible online with a new website and be able to spend time painting:
"I want to get back to painting, I really, really desperately want to paint, and also to do more commissions for people and just to have more of a creative side to allow me to be back into the studio."
Claire goes on to say:
"A difficult decision, but the right decision to close the Ilkley Gallery. Because I feel as though we want to get out more on a widespread field rather than being in Ilkley and on the High Street. So Knaresborough will be staying open as always, but the Ilkley Gallery will be closing at the end of the month."
Charlotte, who currently manages the Ilkley gallery, is changing to be creative director and Amanda in Knaresborough will be the gallery director.
The closing date for the Ilkley gallery is 21st March.
Updates will be posted on the Claire Baxter Artist and Gallery social media.
Watch Claire's full video below.

Ilkley businesses suffer as representative protest against new parking charges
Fundraising launched for Lizzie after devastating diagnoses
Ilkley MP reveals which Town of Culture bid he is backing
New Ilkley based production company presents Bindweed
Airedale Hospital introduces new service for prostate cancer
Yorkshire residents needed for new series of BBC's Gladiators
Lexus Ilkley Open x Beyond The Baseline 2026
Village panto raises over £3,000 for good causes
Have a cracking time at Nell Bank this Easter
Ilkley Pre-School faces closure without urgent financial lifeline
MP shares update on redevelopment of Airedale Hospital
Age UK shop is Ilkley appeals for donations as stocks are low
Fuggle & Golding saved by Horsforth Brewery
Joanna seeks life-extending treatment after brain tumour diagnosis
Winners revealed for Ilkley Business Awards 2026
Airedale Hospital charity hits the road for its fifth annual World Book Day adventure
Yorkshire Water, what is happening behind all those blue hoardings?
Ilkley Cemetery's Beanlands Parade gates repairs
Local MP backs campaign to protect affordable residential experiences for young people
Ilkley's Annual Town Meeting and Citizen Awards 2026


