Tourism organisations in East Yorkshire are actively promoting the region's strong ties to the late artist David Hockney, aiming to build on his international legacy to attract more visitors. Hockney, who passed away earlier this month, brought global recognition to the Wolds countryside through his distinctive landscape paintings, making it a focal point for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Councillor Nick Coultish, vice chairman of Visit Hull and East Yorkshire (VHEY), emphasised Hockney's role as a significant ambassador for the region. He noted that the artist's international exhibitions provided unique opportunities to showcase East Yorkshire to new audiences, potentially encouraging them to consider the area for holidays. Hockney, born in Bradford, spent considerable time living in Bridlington, where his mother and sister resided, drawing inspiration from the local scenery that would become central to many of his works.
One of Hockney's most celebrated pieces depicting the region is 'Bigger Trees Near Warter' from 2007, a monumental work measuring 40ft by 15ft, composed of 50 individual canvases. VHEY plans to continue leveraging this artistic heritage by highlighting attractions such as a dedicated David Hockney cycling trail and supporting exhibitions of his work. Coultish believes that Hockney's association helps to demonstrate the inherent beauty of East Yorkshire, often understated by locals, comparing it favourably to other renowned picturesque locations globally.
Local businesses have already felt the positive impact of this connection. The Wolds Inn in Huggate, for instance, has observed guests frequently mentioning Hockney. Owner Vicky Knocker recalled how Hockney spent summers working in the village fields as a youngster, a period she believes deeply influenced his later return to paint the landscape. Guests, particularly walkers and cyclists on routes like the Wolds Way and Way of the Roses, often draw parallels between the views they experience and Hockney's iconic paintings. Legend also suggests that a young Hockney had his first 'tipsy' experience at the pub in 1952 while working on nearby farms.
While tourism spending in the region recently reached £1 billion for the first time, Councillor Coultish expressed optimism for continued growth in visitor numbers, citing the capacity and hospitality of local businesses. However, Vicky Knocker offered a more cautious perspective, noting that while increased business is welcome, the villagers themselves value the area's current quiet and peaceful nature. She acknowledged that Hockney undoubtedly put Huggate on the map, but also highlighted the desire to preserve the tranquil character that makes the area so special.