Lancashire Artist of the Year 2025: Winner and finalists unveiled
An artist who set out to paint every canal bridge between Parbold and Gathurst has been crowned Lancashire Artist of the Year 2025.
Self-taught painter Gary North captured the public's heart with his vibrant, impressionistic depictions of northern landscapes and canal bridges.
Gary’s journey to the award has been anything but conventional. Entirely self-taught, he credits his Nan for encouraging his early scribbles and turned to painting after a serious injury ended his sporting pursuits. His biggest inspiration is the often misunderstood painter Theodore Major, whom he describes as a "local legend of Appley Bridge."
Gary's entry, 'Spring at bridge 39 (Leeds-Liverpool canal)', clearly resonated widely with the public, with votes pouring in from across the county – including canal bridge regulars, Parbold mums’ groups, local teachers, canal magazines, a choir, and even a dog named Henry (though he suspects it was Henry’s mum who voted).
Gary, from West Lancashire, said: "To know that thousands of people voted, and chose my painting, is humbling beyond measure. Plus I’m pretty sure my quirk of never using red paint due to being an Evertonian may have gained some votes."
When he was announced as Lancashire Artist of the Year, Gary said he was "utterly stunned".
"For someone who once fell out of love with art because of a discouraging teacher, this moment feels all the more extraordinary," Gary said.
"I paint purely for joy – for myself – so to have that joy recognised by others is a feeling beyond words."
Gary was revealed as the 2025 winner at a special awards ceremony
Returning to help announce this year’s winner, Kathryn Olley, Lancashire Artist of the Year 2024, reflected on the impact of the award: "Winning Lancashire Artist of the Year was the spark that reignited everything, transforming my journey from burnout to building Kathryn Alice Art and major collaborations. Last year’s award was more than just a title for me; it turned my passion into a purpose and opened doors I could only have dreamed of.
"Coming back as last year’s winner to help announce this year’s title felt like a true passing of the torch, and I want to congratulate all the finalists for their amazing achievements especially this year’s winner, Gary.
"It’s wonderful to see Gary celebrated this year, and I wish him every success as he enjoys this exciting opportunity."
Cllr Matthew Salter, cabinet member for education and skills, said:
"Lancashire Artist of the Year is a celebration of creativity, community, and the power of art to stir conversation and bring people together.
"Gary’s story is a great example of how art can connect people to the places they live and spend time in and inspire others to reflect on the beauty of their surroundings.
"We’re proud to support opportunities like this that showcase the incredible talent across our county."
Gary's winning artwork will now grace the front cover of the Lancashire Artist of the Year 2026 calendar, with the other finalists all featuring.
The calendar will be sold in all Lancashire libraries, museums and archives from November, with the proceeds going towards activities to support care leavers in Lancashire.
A total of £2,725 was raised from the sale of the 2025 calendars, which went towards a range of activities for Lancashire care leavers.
You can view all of this year's finalists at lancashire.gov.uk/artist-of-the-year