Free half term fun at local art galleries
Clarendon Fine Art is inviting local families to experience a hub of creativity and inclusion at its galleries in York, Leeds, Harrogate and Ilkley.
Until February 22, Clarendon Fine Art - and its four Yorkshire galleries - are encouraging families to visit and pick up a complimentary competition pack designed to inspire children’s artistic expression, with winners having their artwork professionally framed and displayed in the gallery.
One national winner, selected by acclaimed British artist Doug Hyde, will receive a family art consultation, a £2,500 artwork of their choice, and an iPad with Apple Pencil. Kids can also enjoy an in-gallery art treasure hunt, making art exploration fun and interactive.
New research commissioned by Clarendon Fine Art reveals that more than a third (37%) of parents actively avoid cultural venues because they feel they are “too adult-orientated”, while over a quarter (27%) fear their child “won’t be welcome”. In addition, nearly one in five parents (18%) worry about disturbing other visitors, highlighting a growing anxiety around judgement in traditionally quiet cultural spaces.
In a country celebrated for its world-class galleries and theatres, the findings suggest a deeper issue: cultural spaces may still feel coded as exclusive, restrained environments rather than welcoming places for families.
The research paints a picture of parents who care deeply about culture but feel constrained by unspoken rules. Over a quarter (27%) of parents say concerns about their children’s behaviour stop them from attending cultural venues, reinforcing the idea that galleries and museums are perceived as places requiring silence, restraint and conformity.
Clarendon Fine Art believes this perception is outdated and is on a mission to reposition galleries as welcoming, vibrant spaces where families can explore creativity together.
To participate in the half term fun, you can find your local gallery at:
28 Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow, G1 3AB
Leeds - 25 King Edward Street, Victoria Quarter, LS1 6AX
Harrogate - 1a James Street, HG11QS
Ilkley - 26 The Grove, LS29 9EE
York - 9 Davygate, YO1 8QR
Or across any of its 90 galleries nationwide.