Kirkstall Art Trail 2026 Set for July with New Funding and Community Projects

The Kirkstall Art Trail, a vibrant community arts event based in Leeds, is gearing up for an exciting 2026, thanks to new funding from a regional developer. This year marks the 11th edition of the Art Trail, which promises to be bigger and better, featuring around 100 artists displaying their work across more than 30 different venues in the area.

Funding Boost

A generous grant of £1,970 from the Banks Group’s Banks Community Fund is set to enhance this year’s event. This funding will help improve the exhibition showcasing the winners of the ‘Capture Kirkstall’ photography competition, which will be held at Butlers in Kirkstall Forge. Winners will also receive professionally printed and framed copies of their photographs, making it a special reward for their creativity.

Community Involvement

This year’s Art Trail will also feature a unique bunting project. Local school children, older residents, and various community groups are already busy creating colourful flags with different themes. These will adorn the nave of Kirkstall Abbey during the Art Trail, adding a festive touch to the historic site. Additionally, the funding will allow local artist Apex Studios to create a large-scale mural at the Church Lane Allotments, further beautifying the community.

Event Highlights

With around 2,000 visitors expected, the Kirkstall Art Trail is set to take place over the weekend of 18th and 19th July. This free event, organised by a dedicated team of 40 volunteers, will feature a variety of activities for people of all ages. Highlights include:

• The first-ever poetry competition, encouraging local writers to showcase their talents.

• Workshops where visitors can try out different artistic materials and methods, from painting to sculpture.

• A sustainable fashion show, featuring new gazebos and trestle tables funded by the Banks Group.

Community Spirit

Mandy Long, the chair of the Kirkstall Art Trail organising committee, expressed her excitement about this year’s programme:

“The Art Trail is well established as a creative influence in our community, as well as a wider cultural highlight within Leeds and Yorkshire beyond.”

“We know from previous years that we have some very talented artists living across our community, and we’d love to have as many local people showing off their creativity in the summer.”

Future Developments

The Banks Group, which is supporting the Art Trail, is also involved in local development projects. Plans are underway for a residential development on a 4.8-hectare area of the former Kirkstall Forge site. This new project will include around 80 new homes and approximately 140 new apartments. The development aims to restore two existing Grade Two Listed cottages and highlight the historic Forge itself as a significant landmark, celebrating the area's industrial heritage.

Community Relations

Jamilah Hassan, community relations manager at the Banks Group, shared her thoughts on the Art Trail:

“The Kirkstall Art Trail is a brilliant initiative that gives local people the chance to express their creativity and their pride in their community.”

Hassan expressed enthusiasm for supporting the Art Trail team as they continue to build on their past achievements.

For those interested in participating, the community photography competition is now open for entries, inviting local talent to showcase their work. The Kirkstall Art Trail is not just about art; it’s about community spirit, creativity, and celebrating local culture in a fun and engaging way. For more information about the 2026 Kirkstall Art Trail, visit kirkstallarttrail.co.uk.