PLANS are taking shape for a major exhibition in Silsden next year.

Silsden in Art, scheduled to take place over the Easter weekend, will capture images of the town and its surrounding countryside through paintings and photographs.

Organisers say the event, which will be held at the town hall, has already attracted interest from a wide range of artists and photographers with work to display.

But more potential exhibitors are invited to come forward.

Silsden arts supporter Colin Neville, who is curator of the Not Just Hockney website and a member of the event's organising team, says: "The planning committee is inviting artists and photographers, of all ages and ability levels, to get in touch to reserve space for their contributions.

"Some very interesting work will be displayed, including atmospheric photographs and striking paintings, that will encourage everyone to look at Silsden with new eyes.

"There will be no charge for displaying work, although we would ask any exhibitors who are selling artwork to donate 20 per cent of the selling price to support the running of the town hall."

The initiative will bring together the work of painters from the past, such as acclaimed Silsden artists Augustus Spencer and Joseph West, with that produced by their modern-day counterparts.

Mr Neville adds: "An earlier appeal brought forth some examples of early and mid 20th century paintings and drawings, and even a 1930s needlework illustrating Silsden scenes. However, we would be interested to hear from anyone else with an old artwork illustrating a Silsden town or countryside scene. These would be shown in the exhibition in a secure part of the town hall, and given the careful handling they deserve."

Amongst the old artwork discovered is a painting by Joseph West of Horn Crag Quarry, which was recently the subject of a campaign to conserve its status as a habitat and haven for wildlife.

The piece is one of eight by West, depicting Silsden scenes, that it is hoped to display.

Silsden in Art takes place on Saturday, March 30, and Easter Sunday, March 31, next year.

A commemorative booklet is currently being prepared for the event, featuring many of the artworks to be displayed.

Anyone requiring further information, or who would like to exhibit work, can email Mr Neville on colinneville1@gmail.com.

Any funds raised through the event will go towards the upkeep of the community-run town hall venue, in Kirkgate.