A SCULPTURE of a giant hare, the creation of the People’s Painting, speed embroidery and a life-size game of Operation all helped to draw more than 2,000 art lovers to The Art Market at York Racecourse from October 2 to 4.

The three day art, design and contemporary craft fair on Knavesmire was opened by Laura Turner, York Art Gallery's curator of art, and the guests of honour were the Sheriff and Sheriff’s Lady, Mr Brian and Mrs Deborah Smith.

Greg McGee, from York contemporary art gallery According To McGee, praised the show's quality and diversity as he judged the work of more than 100 artists, including paintings, ceramics, jewellery, wearable art and sculptures, on sale at £5 to £20,000.

Andy Fullalove, from Holmfirth, won the Outstanding Artist award, drawing this appraisal from Greg: "I’m a big fan of painting; it’s always been a cool art form as it’s tangible and you can take it home with you," he said. "I appreciate well-made work, particularly when it’s provocative and contemporary, and that’s exactly what Andy’s work achieves.”

The Best Newcomer award went to 23-year-old Freya Stockford, by chance from Holmfirth too. Freya was one of 12 art graduates who received free exhibition space and mentoring from professional artists as part of the Art Market’s RAW Graduate Award programme.

Sculptor Brendan Hesmondhalgh, one of the event's organisers, said: “This has been a tremendous show and we’re delighted that Yorkshire people have supported our super-talented artists, who came from all over the UK.

"We worked hard to make the event exciting and interesting with something for everyone. It gave people the chance to interact with and meet the makers, to understand their thinking behind pieces of art and share their inspiration.”

The Art Market will hold its next events on November 22 and 29 in Holmfirth.