A NEW art gallery is set to open its doors in Thornton later this month.

Local artist and printmaker Patrick Whitehead is behind the venture, having transformed the Grade II-listed property on Market Street.

The Apothecary Gallery has taken its name from the building’s former use.

Mr Whitehead said: “Originally, the building was a Victorian Apothecary and was in the Waddington family for over 150 years.

“It seems appropriate and fitting that my gallery continues this name.

“The gallery is divided into two rooms - one for printmaking studio and personal gallery and the second room for showcasing world by other artists.”

He added: “I’m hoping that my gallery will aid the regeneration of Thornton village and complement the great work that is being done at South Square Arts Centre in the village.”

In March the Telegraph & Argus reported how Mr Whitehead had applied to Bradford Council to change the use of the residential building.

In his application, Mr Whitehead described how the house had been modernised by previous owners and the front of the premises had been divided into two rooms.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: The property on Market Street, Thornton. Picture: Google StreetviewThe property on Market Street, Thornton. Picture: Google Streetview

"It’s my intention to retain the current layout internally as I do not want or need any building work to take place,” he stated.

"The submitted plans show I would use both rooms as an art gallery to display my prints with Gallery 1 also being my studio where customers can see exactly what printmaking entails.

"The front of the building has two large display windows which I would use to display my framed prints which would change on a regular basis, especially as I complete new work."

He adds: "I can confirm that there will be no physical change to the rooms.”

He also outlined how he would not make any physical changes to the façade other than to add the signage above the windows.

The plans were approved, with conservation officer Jon Ackroyd describing the building as presenting “a fine and characterful shopfront” to the street.

“The proposed use will be a positive change for the street, re-introducing activity and commercial presence. This is regarded as an enhancement to the conservation area.

“The improved vitality of this property will benefit the conservation area and restore a commercial purpose to the property. The enhancement is to be welcomed.”

The official launch of the gallery is Saturday, June 11, from noon.

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