Kirkstall Art Trail is back this summer and we’re looking for artists, makers, and creative organisations to take part. Join us for a weekend of creativity on 18 and 19 July.
The Art Trail provides a unique chance for artists to showcase and sell their work in unconventional settings. These include heritage sites such as Kirkstall Abbey, along with local community spaces, allotments, sports and social clubs, and St Stephen’s school and church. But local residents provide many of the most popular venues by opening their homes up as mini art galleries.
Who can apply?
As we’re based in Kirkstall, we prioritise local artists and those from West Leeds and West Yorkshire. We welcome newcomers, whether you’re starting out or an established artist.
The Art Trail invites individual artists, crafters, or designers, as well as creative organisations or collectives to apply. We’re especially eager to see artists who place environmental sustainability at the centre of their practice.
Taking part
You can make your application on the CuratorSpace website, where you’ll also find more details about the opportunity. The deadline for submissions is on 12 April 2026.
Kirkstall Art Trail aims to provide a welcoming environment for everyone. We encourage artists from all backgrounds to take part; we want everyone to feel that art is for them. You can find more information about accessibility and applying for the Art Trail by following the link.
Kirkstall Art Trail 2026 timeline
- Applications open: 5 January 2025
- Applications close: 12 April 2026
- Artists notified: We aim to inform successful artists by email within three weeks of the application closing date.
- Art Trail: Saturday, 18 and Sunday, 19 July 2026
Postcards created from photos sent to us from visitors, volunteers, and artists. You can see more photos from Kirkstall Art Trail on our Gallery.
