A community-run art venue has received commendation from a local parliamentarian for its dedication to promoting artistic expression and bringing people together.
Robbie Moore, the representative for Keighley and Ilkley, toured the Inner Light Studio and Gallery situated within the Airedale Shopping Centre after receiving an invitation from area photographer Simon Sugden.
Mr Sugden’s current showcase, titled Urban Kaleidoscope, remains exhibited through September 12 and displays kaleidoscopic compositions drawing inspiration from city environments, geometric arrangements, and mirrored imagery.
The studio founders garnered recognition for their efforts Mr Moore expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to view Mr Sugden’s recent collection.
He noted that the photographer presents viewers with an unconventional angle on the region’s manufacturing history, transforming ordinary structures and locations into entirely fresh visual experiences.
The parliamentarian was shown around the premises by the establishment’s creators, artists Jon Wilfy and Lauren Emma, who established the venue in March 2026 after converting an unoccupied retail space.
Mr Moore observed that Mr Wilfy and Ms Emma merit significant acknowledgment for establishing an authentic community-based venue and making it accessible to fellow creators and the broader public.
The founders share their vision Mr Wilfy explained that Ms Emma approached him in 2025 regarding the possibility of developing a collaborative creative hub.
At that period, he operated an additional artistic venue in Keighley, yet he decided to pursue this new venture due to its apparent promise.
The objective was to provide opportunities for creators who typically lack opportunities to display their work, given that neither of the founders fit conventional artistic moulds.
They produce work from an authentic place within themselves and wished to demonstrate their experience to others while contributing to the community, a goal they believe Inner Light enables them to achieve.
Ms Emma noted that the initiative represented a completely community-driven endeavor, with backing from local residents that had been genuinely humbling.
Mr Moore visited their distinctive venue to examine several of the installations and visual pieces, expressing admiration for what he observed.
Every form of encouragement carries substantial meaning because the aim is to inspire and ignite something meaningful within each individual who enters the space.
After Mr Sugden’s presentation concludes, Inner Light will present Creatures of Alchemy beginning September 19, showcasing creations by Fran Elliott and Dani Parker.