UNFORTUNATELY York Art Gallery closed due to Government advice on coronavirus just five says after a new exhibition opened, celebrating new artists.

But not before The Press' photographer Frank Dwyer had an opportunity to meet some of the artists and take pictures of their work.

The Aesthetica Art Prize exhibition was due to feature 18 shortlisted artists, whose work responds to the changing world.

The annual award - now in its 13th year - is open to established and up-and-coming artists from all over the world and offers £6,000 prize money.

The exhibition opened on March 13, but on March 18 York Museums Trust announced it would be closing its venues, including the gallery, indefinitely - following government advice on the coronavirus crisis.

York Museum Gardens remain open currently, so that people can enjoy them for fresh air and exercise.

But all programmed activities and events are cancelled for the next 12 weeks - including the annual Eboracum Roman Festival.

Reyahn King, chief executive of York Museums Trust, said: “York Museums Trust is acting to close our museums to support public health measures during this crisis.

"We are maintaining access to Museum Gardens and hope that people will be able to enjoy them safely for exercise.

"We are committed to caring for York’s heritage and culture and will be encouraging people to access our online collections and offer over the next weeks."

York Museums Trust staff are working from home where possible. And the organisation is also in regular contact with other venues in York. Visit yorkmuseumstrust.org.uk/collections to view collections online.