photoILKLEY is the town’s first-ever grassroots photography festival, designed to celebrate the power of visual storytelling and community. Founded by artist and curator Andreea Chițan, it aims to move beyond “picture-perfect” postcards to explore the deeper, lived-in reality of Ilkley—capturing its quiet moments, diverse identities, and the connection between its people and the landscape.

What They Do

photoILKLEY transforms the town into a massive open-air and indoor gallery. They focus on:

• Themed Exhibitions: Showcasing both documentary and conceptual photography in unconventional spaces—from local cafes and galleries like the Tinker Gallery to disused phone booths at the train station.
• Workshops & Education: They host hands-on sessions (often in partnership with Ilkley Manor House) covering everything from beginner camera basics and fashion photography to unique crafts like “Stitch Your Story” (embroidered photography).
• Community Dialogue: Using images to spark conversations about belonging, local history, and social issues.
• Youth Engagement: Providing a professional platform for young people to showcase their work through dedicated competitions and exhibitions.

How to Get Involved

If you’re looking to join the “creative pulse” of the town, there are several ways to participate:

• Attend a Workshop – In the lead-up to the 2026 festival, photoILKLEY is running a spring workshop series throughout March 2026.
  • Topics: Beginners’ photography, Darkroom skills (CultureCam), Fashion photography, and Embroidered photography.
  • Bonus: Work created in these workshops will be featured in a “Make Photographs, Share Stories” exhibition at Ilkley Manor House opening April 4, 2026.
• Enter the Competitions
  • The festival regularly hosts a Young Photographer Competition (for those aged 20 and under). It’s a great way for emerging talent to see their work displayed alongside established artists.
• Volunteer – As a grassroots event, the festival relies on local support. You can get involved by:
  • Venue Stewarding: Helping visitors navigate the various exhibition sites.
  • Installation: Assisting with the physical setup of the photographic displays.
  • Social Media: Helping spread the word about festival events.
• Visit the Festival (July 2026) – Simply walking the “trail” of exhibitions is the easiest way to participate. Many events and exhibitions are free to the public, designed to be accessible to everyone whether you own a professional DSLR or just use your phone.