Four prominent British portrait artists, known for their depictions of the royal family, have shifted their focus to local independent business owners in a new exhibition opening at London’s Saatchi Gallery. The event, titled "Local Royalty," showcases portraits of fish and chip shop operators, pub landlords, and corner shop proprietors, celebrating their contributions to Britain’s high streets.
Among those featured is Pindy Kaur, owner of Ocean Fish Bar in Barnsley, who was painted by Nicky Philipps. Philipps, a three-time portrait artist of the late Queen Elizabeth II and noted for her 90th birthday portrait of the monarch, described Kaur as "the fish and chip queen of the north." The painting presents a tribute to the everyday significance of such local businesses.
Another subject is Gino Verecchia, whose family has operated Glasgow’s University Café for three generations. Verecchia was portrayed by Gareth Reid, who previously painted King Charles III in a work displayed at Hillsborough Castle. Reid’s involvement underscores the parallel between royal portraiture and this new focus on community figures.
Jamie Coreth, recognized for painting the first official joint portrait of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, contributed a portrait of Simon Dafforn-Jones, landlord of the Ferry Boat Inn in Dittisham, Devon. Coreth emphasized that celebrating ordinary citizens through portraiture continues a long-standing artistic tradition.
Nick Bashall, who has painted the Princess Royal multiple times, created a portrait of Kaual Patel, who has managed Torridon Convenience Store in Catford, southeast London, since 2000. Each featured business owner will keep their completed portrait and receive a charitable donation in their name as part of the exhibition’s initiative.
"Local Royalty" runs from October 28 through November 1, offering visitors at the Saatchi Gallery an opportunity to view these works that elevate everyday community figures to a status typically reserved for royalty and prominent public personalities.