West Yorkshire’s Natural Magic Comes to Life at Leeds Corn Exchange
As proud guardians of the Leeds Corn Exchange, we believe its soul is nurtured not just by preserving its stunning architecture, but by filling it with creativity that inspires. In this spirit, we are delighted to announce Ilkley-based watercolour artist Cat Barrett as the winner of our latest staircase art commission.
Our public call for artists was met with an incredible response, with 65 submissions showcasing the region’s vibrant talent. Cat’s work was chosen for its magical ability to bring the beauty of the West Yorkshire landscape into the heart of the building, with a design that shows deep respect for the interior architecture. Her artwork, installed in the summer of 2024, now adorns the staircase panels, creating an uplifting and whimsical journey for all who visit.
Cat’s art, inspired by landscape and wildlife, has a unique quality that feels both timeless and contemporary. The selection panel—which included Kirsty Young of Leeds Museums and Galleries, Simon Rix of the Kaiser Chiefs, curator Courtney Spencer, and our own Georgina Maud—was particularly taken with how her work elegantly bridges the gap between the human touch of watercolour and the precision of large-scale digital printing. It’s a seamless blend of old and new that resonates perfectly with the Corn Exchange itself.
Intriguingly, this commission creates a new, unspoken dialogue with the past. Cat’s work bears a beautiful relationship to Graeme Willson’s beloved ‘Cornucopia’ mural nearby. Both artists, living and working in Ilkley generations apart, were clearly captivated by the magic of their natural surroundings and drawn to the unique atmosphere of the Corn Exchange.
We are thrilled to celebrate another of Yorkshire’s brilliant artists and invite you to experience this beautiful addition to one of Leeds’ most cherished landmarks.
Discover more about the artist: https://catbarrett.co.uk/pages/about-me
