Collection: Matty Burnham "By The Gate"

Matty Burnham's “By the Gate,” awarded third place in the over-18s category, is a delightful fusion of watercolour and ink that brings a fresh perspective to the storied façade of Holdsworth House. This 305 x 229mm piece utilizes a bent nib pen, giving rise to the manor’s ‘pleasingly wonky’ features and a spirited playfulness in its lines. With a thoughtful use of blues and purples for shadows, Burnham infuses the work with a sense of sun-drenched vivacity, eschewing the mundane for shadows filled with life.

The garden, rendered with careful attention to detail, not only complements the historic manor but also provides a lush foreground that invites viewers to step through the gate into the serene world of Holdsworth House. Burnham's artwork is a testament to the manor's enduring allure and a celebration of its integration with the surrounding nature, casting the estate in a light as welcoming as the sunlit paths that lead to its doors.

More about Matty Burnham:

Matty Burnham, a Yorkshire-based artist, has swiftly developed a distinctive style, showcasing the region's stunning landscapes through ink and watercolour. Remarkably, Burnham’s artistic journey took a serious turn only during the lockdown, quickly earning acclaim. His works often feature the quaint fishing villages of North Yorkshire's coast, where he masterfully captures the interplay of light, shadow, and the natural beauty of his surroundings. Matty's approach combines technical precision with a whimsical flair, inviting viewers into the charming world he sees through his art.

Return To Shortlisted Artists:

See artwork by all the shortlisted artists from the 60th Anniversary Art Contest

Shortlisted Art

Our Gentleman Cat

Eric is the resident cat at Holdsworth House Hotel & Restaurant in Halifax, West Yorkshire.

Adopted as a stray, he has become a firm favourite with our guests. He's always on hand to welcome new arrivals and has been known to photobomb wedding shots!

He can generally be found in the hotel reception welcoming guests.

The fantastic "Gentleman Cat' illustration was created by illustrator Jo Bird and inspired by the BBC/HBO TV costume drama Gentleman Jack that was filmed nearby. 

Gentleman Cat Shop