ALISTAIR and Jonny Brownlee have opened the new premises of the Art Works Picture Framers and Gallery in Otley.

The brothers joined Martin Fisher, creative director of The Art Works and Barryjohn Fowler, managing director of The Art Works, at the new workshop and gallery on Courthouse Street, on Friday evening to cut the ribbon and officially open the building. Around 70 guests gathered to celebrate the event, including Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate for Leeds North West, Greg Mulholland.

The Art Works has worked with Jonny and Alistair Brownlee for several years, framing items both from their sporting careers and for their charity, The Brownlee Foundation. This organisation is committed to giving children all over the UK a positive sporting experience, as well as supporting sports teachers and coaches.

Jonny said: “The team at the Art Works has always produced great work for both myself and Alistair, helping us to preserve some of our favourite sporting memorabilia, including from the Olympics. They’ve also been great supporters of the Brownlee Foundation, something we are passionate about. The new Art Works’ is a stunning building, and easy to find!”

The Art Works’ new building was built in 1900, and has undergone a four month restoration to create a unique gallery space and framing workshop. The open plan work space, specifically designed for framing, allows customers to see the team at work, while the exhibition space will feature a regularly updated range of artists.

Mr Fowler said: “Opening the building is a huge milestone for the business, and we’re delighted to share it with customers, family and friends. The move has provided us with a specialist space to help us provide more efficient, creative and expert framing for our customers.”

Mr Fisher added: “We’re also especially excited about the new gallery space, and plan to feature artists from across the country. We want it to be an exciting exhibition space and a real destination for Otley. We’re thrilled that Jonny and Alistair could be here to mark the occasion, and have really enjoyed working with them and the Brownlee Foundation – and look forward to doing so in the future.”

There was also an open day at the gallery on May 27, which saw many visitors come to see the new building and art work on display.