Swaledale

Muker Show 2018

Published on September 6, 2018September 6, 2018 by RichardLeave a comment

Yesterday was the 113th Grand Annual Show, held on the most perfect September day. The show retains its roots and traditions, and the competitions, whether baking the tastiest chocolate cake or scone, drawing or painting the perfect landscape, herding truculent sheep, or attempting to run the fell race, are all of a high standard and accompanied by good humour. Perhaps best of all, the show is a place where old friends meet and catch up, whether at the show or after in the Farmers Arms.

The show is yet another great reason to visit our village. More information on the show can be found here (https://www.mukershow.co.uk) but for now a few snaps to remind us of the day.

Last Minute Prepartions, Muker Show 2018

Clive & Amanda Owen et al, Muker Show 2018

Discussing the finer points, Muker Show 2018

All set within glorious Upper-Swaledale, Muker Show 2018

Community Singing outside The Farmers, Muker Show 2018

James Wheeler –

Published on July 9, 2018 by RichardLeave a comment

James Wheeler’s paintings have been part of the Old School since the days before we took over the gallery back in April 2017 and we’re pleased that the association continues and grows stronger over the months and years.

Moor Entrance, James Wheeler | The Old School Muker

Of all our artists it is Jame’s work that I’m reminded as I make my way off Shunner Fell at dusk or walk along Occupation Lane on one of those atmospheric days Upper-Swaledale throws at you from time to time; the patterns and textures of the landscape, the lonely field barns and farm houses, all lying under a brooding, heavy sky.

Moor Textures, James Wheeler | The Old School Muker

Using oil on cork, James perfectly captures the drama and atmosphere of our surroundings and next year we hope to be able to showcase Jame’s original work in the Hartlake gallery. Watch this space!

Barn With Tin Roof on the Move

Published on April 29, 2018 by RichardLeave a comment

Barn With Tin Roof, by local artist Sue Dewhurst, brightened up our dark winter days. Now, just has Spring has sprung in Muker, the painting has moved on to provide warmth and colour in its new owners cottage. We’ll miss it!

Just Visiting Just Left, Sandra Parker

Published on April 7, 2018 by RichardLeave a comment

Sandra Parker’s wonderful Just Visiting (above) just left the Old School.

We’re currently showcasing a selection of Sandra’s work at the Old School including three superb originals, one of which is the superb Swaledale study, Yan, below …

… and we plan to get our hands on some more of Sandra’s work very soon. Watch this space!

New Arrivals, John Harrison

Published on December 15, 2017January 5, 2018 by RichardLeave a comment

John fought through a bad back and yesterday’s “seasonal” weather to deliver four, new, superb line and watercolour paintings of Muker, Gunnerside & Hemsley. We’re really chuffed he made the effort. I guess you have to suffer for your art!

Title: Muker

Artist: John Harrison

Medium: Original line and watercolour

Dimensions: ~H45cm x W35cm Framed

Price: £265

Title: Gunnerside

Artist: John Harrison

Medium: Original line and watercolour

Dimensions: ~ H64cm x W36cm Framed

Price: £295

Title: Swaledale over Gunnerside

Artist: John Harrison

Medium: Original line and watercolour

Dimensions: ~ H45cm x W35cm Framed

Price: £265

Title: Hemsley

Artist: John Harrison

Medium: Original line and watercolour

Dimensions: ~ H43m x W26cm Framed

Price: £225

Sigma SD Quatto H – First Shots

Published on August 27, 2017 by RichardLeave a comment

I’ve only had literally 20 minutes shooting with the Sigma SD Quattro H (paired with a Sigma 18-35mm DC) but couldn’t resist pushing out these shots. I was blown away when I first processed images from a Sigma Merrill … and I pretty much have the same feeling processing these. Can’t wait to get out and really put the camera through its paces.

_DQH0016 — Occupation Lane, Muker | Sigma SD Quattro H

_DQH0029 — Slate Roof | Sigma SD Quattro H

Post- processed using SPP and Lightroom.

Discovering Muker, 1950 Restored

Published on August 25, 2017January 5, 2018 by RichardLeave a comment

A recently re-discovered print of Muker, measuring 6 feet by 3 feet, found in Reeth Memorial Hall, and dating to circa 1950, one year before electricity came to the village and four years before the creation of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Considering its age it’s in remarkable condition. Who took remains a mystery but whoever it was, had a fine eye, a fine camera and a fine set of muscles to carry it!

_DSC3568 — Muker, Swaledale, circa 1950 Original

And hopefully the restored version below, now on sale to generate funds for Muker Village Hall, does the original photographer justice.