British Art Portfolio of Guilsborough wins the East Midlands Gallery of the Year 2026
British Art Portfolio has been named Gallery of the Year in the East Midlands 2026, recognising the gallery’s contribution to the regional arts scene and the support it has received from clients and the wider community.
The award was announced on 1 September following public voting through the My Local Awards programme. The awards are free to enter, and businesses cannot pay to be nominated, shortlisted or named a winner.
Based in Guilsborough, West Northamptonshire, British Art Portfolio specialises in original 20th and 21st century British art. Its rural gallery overlooks Hollowell Reservoir and hosts spring and autumn exhibitions alongside private appointments.
“We are delighted to receive such wide support from our followers. Winning East Midlands Art Gallery of the Year is a significant milestone for us. It proves that, although we are a small gallery, we can punch above our weight.”
Louise Newton, Co-founder, British Art Portfolio
Fifteen years of British art and personal service
British Art Portfolio was founded in 2011 by Louise Newton and Amanda Lowther after both achieved first-class BA Honours degrees in History of Art at the University of Leicester. Drawing on previous experience in the London art world, the pair launched their first exhibition at Noseley Hall in Leicestershire in October 2011, raising money for a local charity.
Over the following 15 years, the gallery developed from a travelling collection, exhibited at venues across the country, into an established rural destination. Past projects included a major sculpture exhibition in the gardens of Knebworth House, which generated substantial publicity despite the practical challenges of staging and protecting work on that scale.
“We are so proud of our gallery. We have enjoyed an amazing 15 years of selling wonderful British art, and we love supporting our brilliant artists.”
Louise Newton, British Art Portfolio
The gallery’s approach combines specialist knowledge with personal service. The team regularly helps clients source artworks for particular spaces or occasions, including a Tuscan landscape chosen as a wedding gift and a triptych sourced from an artist in Suffolk.
Louise Newton added: “People are often surprised and impressed by the quality of the art when they arrive. Our relaxed atmosphere provides a personal touch for everyone who visits and, we hope, encourages them to return and bring friends.”
Supporting artists, clients and local causes
Community involvement has remained central to the gallery’s work. British Art Portfolio says it has raised more than £60,000 for charities during its 15-year history. This year it is supporting Young Leicestershire, following fundraising for the new Maggie’s Cancer Care Centre in Northampton last year.
The gallery credits its clients, artists, staff and supporters for helping it reach this milestone, with particular thanks to team members Polly and Gabby.
The award arrives as British Art Portfolio prepares for its 15th anniversary exhibition, taking place from 5 to 11 November. Visitors are invited to view the collection in a relaxed setting, with coffee and views across the surrounding countryside.
British Art Portfolio’s official winner record is available from My Local Awards, while further information about the gallery and its collection can be found on the British Art Portfolio website.