Jake Attree:
From a Fixed Point
6th June - 25th July 2026
Thorns Gallery is pleased to present From a Fixed Point, a new solo exhibition by contemporary British artist Jake Attree (b. 1950). The exhibition brings together a series of paintings inspired by the landscapes surrounding Thorns Gallery in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, alongside works reflecting the historic city of York, where Attree was born. Other areas across Northumberland and Cornwall also feature within this body of work due to the dramatic rockfaces which appear within their own unique landscapes.
Attree’s work, while rooted in observation, is deeply shaped by memories of childhood. His paintings move beyond straightforward depictions of place. Instead he constructs layered, reflective pieces that draw on both lived experience and the artists he is influenced by.
A rich palette of deep ochres, reds, and pale greys runs throughout the works, echoing both the veined rock which can be found surrounding Thorns Gallery and the weathered surfaces of York Minster. Through these tonal relationships, Attree draws subtle parallels between landscape and architecture while also weaving in his artistic influences from Northern European masters such as Pieter Bruegel through to the Canadian American abstract minimalist painter Agnes Martin with distinct markmaking and composition.
A recurring theme in Attree’s work are the pantile rooftops in York. He explained that when the city is viewed from above, York Minster looks as if it is, ‘floating on an ocean of red tiles.’. This particular view is something he has explored at length. These works are further informed by Philip Guston’s early abstract painting Zone (1953-1954), which features a similar sculptural line and rich colour palette.
The Yorkshire Dales are a prominent focus within this exhibition. In advance of the show, Attree undertook a period of artist in residence at Thorns Gallery, spending several weeks immersed in the surrounding landscape. This direct engagement with place informs the depth and sensitivity of the works presented here.
From a Fixed Point will be open by appointment at Thorns Gallery, Yorkshire from 6th June - 25th July 2026.