William Etty Statue in Exhibition Square, York
A dignified granite statue in Exhibition Square honoring York-born William Etty, a pioneering painter of nudes and historical scenes.
The William Etty statue, created by G.W. Milburn and unveiled in 1911, stands prominently in Exhibition Square outside York Art Gallery. It honors William Etty (1787–1849), a pioneering English painter renowned for his historical paintings and bold depictions of the nude. The granite statue commemorates Etty’s artistic legacy and his deep ties to York, his birthplace and final home.
A brief summary to William Etty
- Exhibition Square, York, YO1 7EW, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit the nearby York Art Gallery to explore William Etty’s paintings and gain deeper insight into his artistic legacy.
- Take time to appreciate the statue’s classical design and granite craftsmanship, reflecting early 20th-century sculpture styles.
- Explore Exhibition Square’s surroundings, which host various cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
Getting There
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Bus
Take local bus services from York city center to Exhibition Square, with a journey time of approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day. Tickets cost around £2-£4. Note that stops are a short walk from the square.
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Walking
From York city center, a pleasant 10-15 minute walk along paved streets leads to Exhibition Square. The route is flat and accessible, suitable for all fitness levels and wheelchair users.
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Taxi
Taxis from York railway station to Exhibition Square take about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Fares typically range from £6-£10. Taxis provide door-to-door convenience.
William Etty location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about William Etty
A Tribute to a York-born Artistic Pioneer
The statue of William Etty in Exhibition Square pays homage to one of York’s most distinguished artists. Born in 1787, Etty became the first significant British painter to specialize in nudes and still lifes, a daring focus in Victorian England. His works combined classical traditions with a vivid, contemporary style, earning him membership in the Royal Academy in 1828. The statue, sculpted by George Walker Milburn and unveiled in 1911, stands as a lasting symbol of Etty’s influence and connection to York, where he was born and died.Artistic Legacy and Controversy
Etty’s career was marked by both acclaim and controversy. His mastery of the human form, especially his realistic and often provocative nudes, challenged Victorian social norms and sparked debate. Despite criticism, he remained committed to his artistic vision, producing richly colored canvases celebrated for their technical excellence. His legacy includes a vast collection of paintings, many held at York Art Gallery, which continue to inspire and provoke discussion about art and morality.Exhibition Square: A Cultural Setting
Exhibition Square, where the statue is located, is a cultural hub in York, adjacent to the City of York Art Gallery. The square itself is named after the Art and Industrial Exhibitions once held there, linking the site to the city’s artistic heritage. The statue’s placement here situates Etty within York’s vibrant cultural landscape, inviting visitors to reflect on the city’s artistic history and Etty’s role within it.Design and Symbolism of the Statue
Crafted from granite, the statue by Milburn captures Etty’s dignified presence, emphasizing his stature as a respected figure in British art. The choice of durable material and classical style reflects Etty’s artistic values and the enduring nature of his contributions. The statue is Grade II listed, underscoring its importance as a heritage asset and a point of civic pride for York.William Etty’s Enduring Influence
Etty’s work paved the way for future British artists to explore the nude and still life genres with greater freedom. His dedication to studying the human form and his willingness to confront societal taboos left a lasting mark on Victorian art. Today, his paintings and this commemorative statue continue to celebrate his pioneering spirit and artistic achievements.Connecting Past and Present
Visitors to Exhibition Square encounter not only a tribute to a remarkable artist but also a tangible link to York’s rich cultural past. The statue stands as a reminder of the city’s role in nurturing talent and fostering artistic innovation. As you observe the statue, consider the challenges Etty faced and the boldness of his vision that still resonates in the art world today.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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York Art Gallery
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Petergate House
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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The Cat Gallery
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Classical Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly