You could have the chance to take home one of York’s most distinctive sculpture artworks with The Watchers of York auction open for bidding.
Produced by Make It York in collaboration with York Minster, the sculptures are inspired by the medieval stone carvings that have watched over York Minster for centuries.
The striking sculptures are individually designed and hand-painted by talented artists, transforming the iconic Watcher into a unique work of art. Each Watcher has its own personality and guardianship, reflected by the place where it stands – full of character, humour and mystery. Learn more about the artists and the Watchers’ guardianship.
Anyone wishing to secure their favourite Watcher is encouraged to place their bids before the auction closes on Thursday 10 September 2026 at: The Watchers of York Sculpture Trail Auction.
There are ten sculptures, by ten artists, to be re-homed:
- The Keeper of Coloured Light – Artist: Caitlin Smith
- The Watcher of the Night – Artist: Hannah Jayne Lewin
- The Merchant Keeper – Artist: Ishleen Kaur
- The Keeper of Voices – Artist: the777paradox
- The Scholar’s Keeper – Artist: Catya Elise Ledezma
- The Garden Guardian – Artist: Rue Robinson
- The River Watcher – Artist: Ali Elly
- The Warden of Wild Blooms – Artist: Gill Prendergast
- The Gatekeeper – Artists: Rachael and Phillippa Corcutt
- The Watcher of York – Artist: Norse Sky
Funds raised through the auction will support the ongoing conservation of York Minster’s internationally significant heritage, including restoration work, as well as the York Creates Fund, which invests in future cultural and creative projects across the city. The auction forms part of the wider legacy of the trail, ensuring that the impact of the project continues long after the sculptures leave the streets of York.
The auction will culminate at the Watchers Final Gathering at York Minster, where all the sculptures will come together for one final appearance before bidding closes.
Sarah Loftus, Managing Director of Make It York, said: “The Watchers of York auction is a wonderful opportunity to own a unique piece of the trail while making a real difference. Every bid will help create a legacy supporting vital work at York Minster and investing in future projects that benefit our city and its communities.
We hope people will bid generously, knowing they’re not only taking home an incredible piece of art, but also contributing to two fantastic causes.”
Two sculptures created in partnership with local charities will return to those organisations to continue inspiring their communities:
- The We’re In It Together City Guardian – Artists: York Against Cancer
- The Many Hands City Guardian – Artists: York and Scarborough Hospitals Charity
While these guardians are not part of The Watchers of York auction, you can still support the charities that inspired them. Every donation helps these organisations continue their vital work across York and beyond, ensuring that care, compassion and support remain at the heart of our communities. Donations can be made online.
The spectacular Watchers sculptures have captivated thousands of residents and visitors throughout their time in York, inspiring people to discover hidden corners of the city and exploring York’s rich heritage.
The city-wide sculpture trail is live until 31 August 2026 with free trail maps available to pick up from the Visit York Visitor Information Centre.
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PRESS RELEASE: 21 July 2026
NOTES TO EDITORS
The Watchers of York hub page: https://visityork.org/watchers-trail
