Leeds salon doubles up as fine art gallery after Covid-19 lockdown

Tint salon, on North Street, Leeds, has turned its walls into an exhibition space to support and showcase the work of Yorkshire-based artist Nina Hunter.

The 12 oil paintings will be on display until Christmas for customers to enjoy and also buy.

Matthew Sutcliffe, creative director at the salon, which is also used as an events' venue, said: “As a collaborative space we’ve always wanted to see local art on the walls of Tint.

“When Nina Hunter asked us we jumped at the opportunity.

“Welcoming over 300 clients a week, it’s the perfect place to showcase such wonderful art.

“We have also attached a link to the client appointment messages so they can view each painting online whilst having their hair done.”

For Nina, who is based in Saltaire, the project marks a return to her original love for creating fine art.

After completing a degree in the subject in 2009, Nina went on to spend much of the past ten years working in design with high-profile clients such as Christian Dior and Louis Vuitton.

But after being made redundant at the start of the pandemic, she took the opportunity to return to fine art, particularly painting women in decorative surroundings.

She said: “Celebrating women for their beauty has been a theme that I've always been drawn to, however only having gone through major life-changing events of 2019 I started exploring the philosophy behind feminine energy and decided to create permanent work that other women and men would relate to.”

Steven Whiteley, partner and managing director at Tint added: “Nina's paintings are very close to our brand as we see hairdressing as a form of art.”

The artwork can also be viewed by appointment. To find out more, contact Tint on 0113 243 3004.

Welcome back to Leeds is an info hub designed to help guide you safely back to the city centre in the months ahead. welcometoleeds.co.uk #backtoleeds

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