Girl Power and Majestyks: Artist Claire Baxter Celebrates Leeds Clubbing and Pop History in 'Bygone Yorkshire'
From the dancefloor of Majestyks to the height of Spice Girls mania, Knaresborough-based artist Claire Baxter turns back the clock with her new Bygone Yorkshire collection, capturing the city’s most iconic social history
To step into the artwork of Claire Baxter is to enter a world that feels instantly, warmly familiar.
Known across the region for her vibrant oil paintings depicting "Proper Yorkshire" and its charming folk, the Knaresborough-based artist has spent over a decade capturing the humour, quiet affection, and everyday rhythms of Northern life.
Now, Baxter is turning her creative lens back in time with her latest project, Bygone Yorkshire.
The new collection builds on her signature style: quirky, colourful, and deeply atmospheric scenes—while leaning heavily into local social history, 90s nostalgia, and Yorkshire’s rich clubbing heritage.
Among the standout inspirations in the collection are affectionate nods to legendary Leeds nightspot Majestyks and the cultural phenomenon of the Spice Girls, tapping directly into the shared memories of generation-defining nights out in the city.
A defining element of Baxter’s work is her deliberate choice never to paint facial features on her figures.
By leaving her subjects faceless, she creates a universal canvas; viewers on a night out at Majestyks or singing along to pop anthems are invited to project their own grandad, auntie, old friends, or personal youth directly into the scene.
Whether depicting late-night city dancefloors, breezy walks along the East Coast, rolling Dales landscapes, or historic market towns, her art strikes a chord with audiences who recognise the genuine grit and warmth that defines Yorkshire culture.
Since leaving a career in secondary school art education in 2014 to paint full-time, Baxter has built a devoted regional following.
Operating her gallery in Knaresborough alongside nationwide exhibitions, she celebrates community life without ever taking herself too seriously.
With Bygone Yorkshire, the collection serves as both an affectionate look back at local pop culture and nightlife and a reminder of the enduring spirit that continues to connect Yorkshire communities across generations.
Further details regarding the exhibition date and venue showcase are expected to be announced in due course, with full venue and "save the date" information to follow.