York River Art Market underway in Dame Judi Dench Walk

York River Art Market is being held alongside the River Ouse in Dame Judi Dench Walk, and this weekend (August 10 and 11) marks the second of three displays of works from York and Yorkshire artists this month.

Now in its ninth year, organiser Charlotte Dawson paid tribute to the atmosphere and said the serenity of the riverside offers the chance for people to take themselves away for a while, but still be close to the city centre.

Charlotte Dawson at the market today (August 10) (Image: Kevin Glenton)

The feeling is reminiscent of Bayswater Road in London, which transforms every Sunday with artists show their work on the railings of Hyde Park and Charlotte said when she set York River Art Market up she checked in with those artists who display their work on this street in the capital.

One main difference between the two events is the river which Charlotte said is one of the key attractions for the market.

One artist showing today (August 10) and in agreement was Laura Joy, who grew up in York and was showing her designs which included Shambles and Clifford’s Tower.

Laura designed this year’s poster for the market, which features Lendal Bridge and an oarswoman on the river.

Laura Joy now lives in Huddersfield but grew up in York (Image: Kevin Glenton)

She said: “My husband is a rower so the image is certainly one I recall and is quintessentially York.”

The illustrator and maker, who went to Fulford School, also said her upbringing and life in York means she can always find a story to tell which attaches to the well-known places and images displayed on her stall.

There are more than 30 artists showing work at York River Art Market with different works and artists each weekend.

This year’s York River Art Market runs today (August 10) and tomorrow, then concludes on Saturday August 17 and Sunday August 18.