Kilbarchan contemporary artist Margaret Borthwick has been shortlisted for the British Art Prize 2025.
The 77-year-old retired GP was selected for an oil painting inspired by a pond at the Calgary Art and Sculpture Trail on Mull. She created the piece after a family visit to the island in September 2024, capturing the reflections, light and quiet atmosphere of the spot.
Only 50 artists made the shortlist from a record 2,900 submissions from across the UK. The judging panel included ROI President and BBC presenter Adebanji Alade, international watercolour artist Álvaro Castagnet, Artists & Illustrators editor Niki Browes, National Trust curator and art historian Dr Amy Orrock, and Tiffany Hall, co-founder of Panter & Hall Gallery.
The British Art Prize recognises artists working in painting, drawing, printmaking, photography and mixed media.
Margaret, who spent 37 years working as a GP in Johnstone, rediscovered her passion for art when she semi-retired 18 years ago. Local art clubs and classes helped her build confidence and develop her skills, eventually leading to an Honours Degree in Painting from the University of Creative Arts in London. Her degree show, “Heartlands”, was exhibited at the Beacon Arts Centre in Greenock. She is now a member of both the Paisley Art Institute and the Glasgow Society of Women Artists.
Margaret said: “When I heard the news that my painting had been shortlisted for the British Art Prize I was shocked and delighted.
“It is fantastic to have my work recognised at this level alongside so many talented and inspirational artists. It shows that it’s never too late to follow your dreams.”
Photo: Margaret Borthwick was shortlisted for her oil painting capturing a peaceful pond at the Calgary Art and Sculpture Trail on Mull
Shortlisted artists are now competing for more than £10,000 worth of prizes, including cash awards, a solo exhibition at Panter & Hall’s Cecil Court Gallery, coverage in Artists & Illustrators magazine, and art materials from major brands.
This year’s prize continues its focus on celebrating artistic excellence and offering artists national exposure and opportunities to connect with collectors, curators and art lovers.
The British Art Prize Exhibition will run at the Oxo Gallery in London from 26th to 30th November 2025. The full shortlist can be viewed at https://awards.artistsandillustrators.co.uk.
Photo: Margaret with her painting
Image credits: supplied