Major Beryl Cook Exhibition Opens at The Box, with Rare Works Heading to Auction

This month sees the launch of a major exhibition celebrating the work of beloved British artist Beryl Cook (1926–2009) at The Box, Plymouth. Opening almost 100 years after her birth, the exhibition showcases the most extensive collection of Cook’s work ever assembled, reaffirming her enduring popularity and connection to the city.

Plymouth Auction Rooms have been uniquely placed over many years as the principal auctioneers of Beryl Cook’s work, working closely with collectors across the UK and overseas. In 2025 alone, no fewer than 20 original works were offered at auction, alongside hundreds of prints.

Perfectly timed to coincide with the exhibition is their Spring Art Sale in March, which will feature the first of two original Beryl Cook works to come under the hammer. Titled Noah’s Ark and dating from the early 1980s, the work was commissioned by Beryl Cook’s agents, the Portal Gallery. At the time, Cook humorously commented on “Noah’s wife’s lack of cooperation with the whole event.” The painting is one of two works consigned from the Channel Islands for sale.

The second work, Broken Window, was featured in Cook’s 1980s children’s book Bertie and the Big Red Ball. The painting depicts a restaurant on Plymouth’s Barbican, Southside Street—then known as Piermasters. This work will form part of The Box exhibition before coming to auction following its public display.

Auctioneer Paul says “This wonderful Plymouth exhibition will give Beryl Cook the acclaim she so richly deserves. The timing of the exhibition offers collectors and newcomers alike the chance to engage with Cook’s work, both publicly and at auction”

The March auction will also feature a notable collection of works by Robert Lenkiewicz (1941–2002). The eight works have remained together in a single private collection for 25 years and include a charming view of the artist’s garden at his home in Compton, Plymouth, alongside a striking self-portrait and a Project 18 work featuring Lisa.

Plymouth Auction Rooms are now accepting entries for this specialist sale. For further details on selling, please visit plymouthauctions.co.uk.