A MAJOR exhibition work by two Wensleydale artists highlights moorland life through the seasons.

After completing their book Moorland Life Through The Seasons of The Year in 2011, Judith Bromley and Robert Nicholls wondered what to do next. Following discussions with Fiona Rosher, manager of the Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes, the couple, who live in Askrigg, decided that they would like to raise awareness of the environmental importance of moorland.

Ms Bromley explained: “We both love the physical aspect of wide-open spaces and incorporate it into much of our work. As we found out more about moorland, we realised how important it was.

“Therefore we decided to launch an exhibition representing 10 years’ work with a common theme of moorland.”

Entitled Climb up to the Moor, the travelling display of artwork started in 2012 and has been held at many locations. It was originally due to finish at the end of 2014 – however, the chance of a venue in London extended the tour. Now the final exhibition is taking place at Tennants Auction House in Leyburn.

The display of paintings has featured between 70 and 80 works at any one time. Central to the project is a piece of group artwork, Groundcover, which has been growing as the exhibition toured. Artists, groups, and children have been asked to make a small piece inspired by the textures patterns and colours of the moorland floor. Visitors have also been encouraged to take part; locally, WI members and Askrigg School have contributed.

Ms Bromley said: “It is nice to think that the exhibition is coming to an end. We have had a wonderful time and it’s been lovely to come back to Yorkshire. Thank you to Tennants for the support and generous space.”

Climb up to the Moor runs until Wednesday at the Garden Rooms, Tennants of Leyburn; admission is free.