Penzance Gallery Director Sarah Brittain-Mansbridge Awarded MBE for Services to Art

Sarah Brittain-Mansbridge awarded MBE in King’s Birthday Honours List

Sarah Brittain-Mansbridge, Director of Cornwall Contemporary gallery in Penzance, has been awarded an MBE for Services to Art in the King’s Birthday Honours List, announced today, Saturday 14th June.

Originally from west Cornwall, Sarah grew up near St Just and graduated from Falmouth School of Art in 1996. She went on to work at several galleries, including Tate St Ives, before opening Cornwall Contemporary in 2006.

Celebrating Cornish Talent on the World Stage

Over nearly two decades, Sarah has built a reputation for promoting both well-established and emerging artists from Cornwall. Through her gallery, she has sold artwork across the globe and helped bring attention to local talent. Her efforts have included writing and publishing several books, exhibiting work by figures such as comedian Vic Reeves, and appearing on the BBC, ITV and Sky Arts.

Sarah was also appointed a Trade Ambassador for the Department of International Trade, travelling to the US to develop a strong base of international collectors interested in Cornish art.

Supporting the Next Generation

In addition to growing the profile of Cornish art abroad, Sarah has spent years mentoring young and early career artists. She has delivered lectures to graduate groups, hosted portfolio workshops, and visited countless studios to support and guide new talent.

She has also helped secure high-profile placements for artists’ work, including permanent displays at The Dorchester in London, commissions for office spaces in South Africa and Paris, and artwork featured in Gordon Ramsay’s restaurants.

“It Means the Absolute World to Me”

Reacting to the news, Sarah said:

“I’m thrilled to be able to share this special news that I’ve had to keep under my hat for a while. I was hugely overwhelmed to receive the letter from the Cabinet Office at the beginning of May which informed me that I have been awarded an MBE for Services to Art. I feel incredibly humbled and grateful to have been considered for such an honour.”

“It means the absolute world to me and it’s been the privilege of my life to have spent the last 28 years working with talented artists and promoting art in Cornwall, in my hometown of Penzance.”

“I also share it with my brilliant staff, SJ, Maggie, Emma and Jess and everyone who has been such a champion of what we do here at Cornwall Contemporary.”

Looking Ahead to a Milestone Year

With the 20th anniversary of Cornwall Contemporary approaching in 2026, Sarah has plans for a series of exciting events and exhibitions. These include From the Water by Neil Pinkett, featuring works created from a sea kayak, and a special show by Jessica Cooper later this year.

As Sarah looks forward to attending her investiture at the palace, she remains committed to her work in Cornwall’s art scene and continuing to create new opportunities for artists.