ARTIST Ashley Jackson is joining the likes of Michael Palin and Dr Who – he’s getting a train named after him.
The Holmfirth artist will next week unveil a Grand Central train named Ashley Jackson – The Yorkshire Artist.
The renowned watercolourist will also see his works of art adorned on the interior of the carriages.
The 70-year-old said: “This is a fantastic day for art, Yorkshire and the country as it opens up a new exhibition space that allows us to have artistic experiences within the confines of our working day, hopefully making train journeys a little more pleasant and thought provoking.”
He was approached by Grand Central after his one man exhibition at the Mall Galleries in London last year.
Ashley added: “Grand Central are giving me the chance to put my work out there for the people. This isn’t elitist – I’ve always been about the people.
“It’s beyond anything any artist has done. It’s just unbelievable.”
Within the train Grand Central customers will be able to view paintings along the carriages – with a surprise for those visiting the toilets.
A painting and a quote from Ashley’s personal sketch books will be exhibited on the back of the toilet door for those moments of solitude.
Ashley added: “I have always said that Yorkshire is my mistress, painting the landscape as if they were her contours on the most inhospitable days.”
Managing director of Grand Central Tom Clift said: “We have worked closely with Ashley so that each painting has been chosen for its unique ability to convey the beauty of the landscape of God’s County of Yorkshire. These are not picture postcard representations but passionate interpretations of the atmospheric elements.
“We are proud to have Ashley Jackson join Grand Central’s exclusive fleet of named trains, alongside the Peter Fox, The Hart of the North and the James Herriot.”
Ashley Jackson – The Yorkshire Artist will run between Bradford and Kings Cross.
He will unveil the train named after him at 5.55pm at Bradford Interchange on Thursday, October 20.
