The new 800 sq ft space is located in the Old Tavern in Petworth’s Market Square and is set to open in the beginning of December. The original gallery is on London’s Bury Street.
“Petworth is becoming an exciting hub in the South for the fine art and antiques trade again,” director Jamie Rountree told ATG. “We hope to rekindle a passion for British sporting and maritime art in buyers.”
The Grade-II listed premises is currently undergoing restoration as a search is undertaken for a new gallery manager and part time staff.
Prime Location
Rountree chose the location of the gallery based in part to Petworth’s suitability to the subject matter of the art available at the gallery.
The hope is that visitors to sporting events at nearby Goodwood and Cowdray as well as yachting centres on the south coast will encourage an interest in the sporting and maritime art that the gallery offers.
Rountree adds that the timing is good with the new location set to open following the launch of the Palace House Museum in Newmarket: “Sporting art should undergo a revival in English country towns – especially when buyers realise how reasonably priced items are in comparison.”
Meanwhile, Rountree said, “The gallery in Petworth will dovetail very well with our Bury Street Premises to continue our discovery of new artists in this sector.”
A first exhibition of Sussex views by Petworth artist Claude Muncaster is planned. Exact dates will be announced closer to the opening.
