Land Of Iron

From sweeping purple moorland to woodland paths carpeted with bluebells, artist Clothylde Vergnes brings a distinctive perspective to the landscapes of North Yorkshire.

Originally from the South of France, Clothylde has made North Yorkshire home, drawing inspiration from its open moors, woodlands and dramatic coastline. Through bold colour, flowing shapes and carefully defined lines, familiar landscapes become personal interpretations of the places that make this region special.

Clothylde is one of six artists taking part in the Brigantia Art and Crafts Christmas Fair at Land of Iron this December.

From the South of France to North Yorkshire

Born and raised in the South of France, Clothylde developed an interest in art from an early age, becoming a full-time artist in 2004.

Now living on the northern edge of North Yorkshire, Clothylde draws inspiration from the remarkable variety of landscapes found across the region.

From wide, open stretches of moorland to coastal villages where cottages seem to crowd towards the sea, these contrasting environments provide a continuing source of creative inspiration.

Although Clothylde exhibits exclusively within Yorkshire, the paintings have travelled considerably further, finding homes in private collections across the UK, France, Australia, Canada and the United States.

Landscapes through colour and line

Clothylde's paintings are recognisable for their expressive use of colour, flowing forms and strongly defined shapes.

Working primarily in oils on canvas, alongside watercolour and pastel, Clothylde creates stylised interpretations of the North Yorkshire landscape rather than strictly realistic representations.

An interest in stained glass has helped shape this distinctive approach. Just as pieces of coloured glass are contained within leading, areas of colour in Clothylde's paintings are often defined by clear boundaries and flowing lines.

Another influence is artist Paul Klee's idea of "taking a line for a walk", encouraging a more imaginative and expressive approach to drawing.

Together, these influences create paintings in which familiar landscapes are transformed through colour, pattern and artistic interpretation.

From outdoor sketches to finished paintings

Clothylde's creative process begins outdoors, capturing the essential shapes and character of a landscape through quick sketches.

These initial observations are then developed in the studio, where colour, composition and line become central to the finished work.

The resulting paintings capture more than the physical appearance of a place. They explore the atmosphere, movement and changing character of the landscape, from the sweeping contours of the moors to the intimate spaces of woodland paths.

Clothylde Vergnes at the Brigantia Christmas Fair, Land of Iron

Clothylde is a member of Brigantia, a collective of artists, craftspeople and designers from across North Yorkshire.

Brigantia brings together a wide range of creative disciplines, celebrating the region's artistic talent and the traditions of art, design and craftsmanship.

Clothylde will be one of six artists participating in the Brigantia Art and Crafts Christmas Fair, taking place at Land of Iron from Friday 4 to Sunday 13 December 2026.

Visitors will have the opportunity to discover Clothylde's colourful interpretations of North Yorkshire alongside pottery, jewellery, textiles and other work by members of the collective.

The Christmas Fair is open daily from 10am to 4pm, with free admission to the fair. Normal admission charges apply to museum visits and tours.

Discover the Christmas Fair at Land of Iron and explore more of Clothylde's work:

Meet the Brigantia artists

Six Brigantia artists are taking part in this year's Christmas Fair at Land of Iron. Discover more about their work:

Links to the remaining artist features will be added as their articles are published.

Contact Clothylde Vergnes

For enquiries about Clothylde's artwork, contact the artist directly:

Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01287 643030
Website: www.clothylde.com

Land of Iron’s programme of events and activities is made possible thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery players.

Land of Iron’s programme of events and activities is made possible thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery players.