With rugged mountains, sparkling lakes and some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country it is no small wonder that for centuries artists, including Turner and Constable, have sought to capture the changing moods and vistas of the North Lakes area. Keswick was the home of the School of Industrial Arts for nearly a century, set up by Canon Rawnsley, a good friend of John Ruskin whose art and writings laid the foundation for the Arts and Crafts movement.
There are many artists and craftsmen living and working in the area today creating both contemporary and more traditional pieces including original oil paintings and watercolours and reproductions, sculpture, jewellery and ceramics. Numerous galleries in Keswick, Cockermouth and the surrounding villages showcase the work of both local and international artists.
