The votes are in, and the winner of the prestigious People’s Choice Award at the North Yorkshire Open Studios Spring Showcase have been revealed.
The Inspired by… gallery at Danby Lodge National Park Centre has just announced the winner of the award and, for the second year running, textile artist Fiona Robertson takes the prize.
“To be the recipient of the People’s Choice Award for the second year has absolutely blown me away.” said Fiona, “I am so grateful to everyone who took the time to appreciate the work and to vote. The NYOS showcase exhibition has so many amazing artists taking part across all disciplines, I am always really proud to have my work alongside so much talent.”
The winning artwork with the most votes from visitors was for Fiona’s hand and machine embroidery work ‘Ashness Bridge’.
“From what I can glean from overheard conversations,” continued Fiona, “at first glance, people think my work is a painting, upon closer inspection they realise it is a stitched textile piece. People are curious about how it is created and the techniques used, they take the time to look closely.
“There is a lot of detail and drawing in each piece of work, the work has a dimensional quality that is different to paint, they can take weeks to complete. I think people also appreciate that. I am just grateful that my work connects in some way.”
Fiona’s work features free-motion machine and hand embroidery, creating highly textured, intricate, and vibrant pieces that capture the beauty of the changing seasons. Inspired by a deep connection to the landscape, her layered compositions bring the essence of nature to life in a stunning and immersive way. Fiona works from her East Harlsey studio.
Visitors from home and overseas voted for their favourite work in the North Yorkshire Open Studios Spring Showcase, an exhibition of work from every single artist who takes part in the open studios event coming up in June. With over 200 participating artists, it was hot competition.
Inspired by gallery curator Rhian Roberts said it was fair to say Fiona’s art captured the hearts of people visiting from North Yorkshire, across the nation and overseas.
“I think people have fallen in love with the sheer skill demonstrated by Fiona, she has spent years honing her craft and repeatedly revisits locations during her making process. Lots of visitors have also spoken about a personal connection with Ashness Bridge and appreciate seeing the care that has gone into Fiona’s rendition of the landmark. If you don’t believe that textile work counts as fine art, then Fiona’s work will surely change your mind.”
Taking place on June 6-7 and 13-14, the event organised by artist-run collective North Yorkshire Open Studios will invite the public to discover working spaces across 3,000 sq miles of this beautiful region.
The artists’ work spans a wide variety of styles, media and subjects, as well as locations – which range from the remote hills of the Upper Dales to the suburban streets of Harrogate, across the Vale of York to the rural North York Moors and coast.
Summer Open Studios will offer the public an exciting opportunity to discover work by talented emerging and established artists in the region, some of whom will also be taking part in a special preview night on Friday 5 June.
Garth Bayley, Project Manager at NYOS and one of the artists opening his home studio to visitors, said: “What makes the Summer Open Studios so special is the rare chance to step behind the scenes and see art in the very places it is created. Instead of just looking at a finished piece on a gallery wall, visitors can talk to the makers, see the tools they use and explore the landscapes that inspire them.
“It’s a curiosity-filled day out that connects the public with our region’s rich history and its vibrant contemporary art scene.”
Summer Open Studios is just one event in NYOS’ packed programme for 2026, which also includes:
- A selling exhibition of work at Ampleforth Abbey from Saturday July 11 to Sunday July 19.
- NYOS Winter Open Studios on the weekend of 7-8 November.
Brochures for Summer Open Studios, which include details of all venues and a map, can be bought online for £5 at nyos.org.uk/brochure. Supporters can become a Friend of NYOS to receive a brochure and 10% off work over £100. Details of the artists taking part are also available at www.nyos.org.uk
