Step inside Limited 2 Art today and you’ll find more than a gallery — you’ll discover a story that has been 22 years in the making. What began as a deeply personal passion for collecting art has grown into one of the most distinctive and welcoming gallery experiences in the region, all under the careful guidance of founder Ruth Stone.
Two years on from our last visit, it feels less like a business marking time and more like one continuing to evolve with quiet confidence. Ruth’s journey has never been about standing still. Her collection — once purely her own — continues to expand, but always with the same ethos: art is meant to be shared, experienced and loved. That authenticity remains at the very heart of Limited 2 Art.
Now firmly established in its self-owned home on Bridgegate, Retford, the gallery has truly come into its own. Spread across two floors, the space invites exploration, with each room offering something different and visitors encouraged to wander, pause and discover at their own pace.
Original works of art are at the heart of the collection, with an eclectic range of styles encompassing contemporary and abstract art, landscapes, figurative pieces, wildlife and more traditional works. Ruth carefully sources artwork from both established and emerging artists, resulting in a constantly evolving collection with an emphasis on quality, individuality and, above all, work that creates an emotional connection.
Alongside the originals is an extensive collection of sought-after limited editions, sculpture, ceramics and exceptional art glass. Particularly striking are the imaginative, characterful creations of Borowski Glass and the beautifully crafted Scandinavian glass of Målerås, each individually selected to complement the gallery’s diverse collection. Visitors will also discover the instantly recognisable Edge Sculpture range and beautifully hand-painted De Rosa Ceramics.
It is this variety that makes a visit to Limited 2 Art so rewarding. There is no single house style and no expectation that visitors should already “know about art”. From bold contemporary statement pieces to atmospheric landscapes, quirky sculpture, colourful glass and beautifully observed wildlife, the collection has been brought together to appeal to many different tastes, homes and budgets.
One of the gallery’s most distinctive offerings is its collection by acclaimed artist Leigh Lambert, who worked exclusively with Ruth to create pieces inspired by Retford itself. His artworks capture familiar local scenes including Cannon Square, Kings Park and Retford Town Hall, offering visitors the opportunity to see their town through an artist’s eyes. This unique connection between artist, gallery and location adds a deeply personal dimension to the collection and further strengthens Limited 2 Art’s place within the community.
Since relocating, the gallery has continued to flourish, not least thanks to the unforgettable “Human Chain” event in 2024, when members of the community came together to help move artworks into their new home. The occasion was so extraordinary that it attracted local television news coverage from both the BBC and ITV, capturing a wonderful moment when the people of Retford quite literally helped move the gallery into its next chapter. It was a perfect reflection of what Limited 2 Art represents: not simply a business, but a place rooted in people, connection and a shared enthusiasm for art.
Today, Limited 2 Art has firmly established itself as a destination gallery. With one of the largest spaces of its kind, it attracts visitors from further and further afield while retaining the loyal local following that has supported Ruth from the very beginning. Even customers who first discovered the gallery during its 16 years in Bawtry now make the journey to Retford, often bringing new visitors with them and introducing more people to the town.
For Ruth, the move to Retford has marked something more permanent — a sense that this gallery is not simply another chapter, but her forever home.
Ruth’s commitment to the artists she represents remains unwavering. The gallery regularly hosts artist events, offering visitors the opportunity to meet the people behind the work, learn more about their creative processes and form a deeper connection with the pieces they admire.
There is always something new to experience. Ruth continually evolves the collection, introducing new artists and artworks throughout the year while ensuring the gallery retains the individuality that has become its hallmark.
Alongside the extensive art collection, Limited 2 Art also offers a bespoke, in-house picture framing service. Each piece is individually considered, with expert advice on frames, mounts and glazing to create a finished result that both complements and protects the artwork. The same service extends far beyond artwork, with customers bringing treasured photographs, memorabilia and personal pieces to be transformed and preserved.
What stands out most, however, is that despite its growth, Limited 2 Art has never lost its personal touch. The gallery remains warm and approachable, with Ruth’s genuine passion for art and her customers at its heart. Whether you are an experienced collector, searching for something special for your home or simply curious, everyone is equally welcome to come in, browse and enjoy the experience.
Twenty-two years on, Ruth’s vision is still unfolding — shaped by creativity, community and an enduring love of art. And if the past is anything to go by, the next chapter promises to be every bit as vibrant.
Because at Limited 2 Art, the story is still being painted.
Visit Limited 2 Art
22–24 Bridgegate, Retford, DN22 6AA
Tuesday to Saturday, 10am–4pm, or by appointment.
Tel: 07966 104550
To discover the latest arrivals, exhibitions and artist events, visit www.limited2art.com or follow Limited 2 Art on
social media.
