Our History
Established in 1900 as Hutchinson’s and originally located near Leeds University, Headrow Gallery is the oldest art and picture framing establishment in Leeds. For over a century, we’ve proudly provided expert framing services and a curated selection of paintings and prints to families, collectors, businesses, and local authorities.
In the 1960s, the gallery relocated briefly to the city centre on the Headrow, where it gained its name,before settling in Alwoodley in 1976 following city centre pedestrianisation. Today, Headrow Gallery offers a comprehensive range of services, including consultation, artwork sourcing and commissioning, delivery, installation, and conservation. The gallery has been led by Leeds native Maxwell Roberts since 1988.
Maxwell Roberts
Maxwell Roberts began his career in the art world as a photographer, training at Leeds Photographic College before joining his father, Sam, at J Roberts Photographers. Sam was one of the key Northern photographers for visionary architect Sir Derek Walker – best known as the chief architect of Milton Keynes and a leading figure behind the design of landmarks such as the Royal Armouries and Leeds Arena.
In an interesting twist of fate, the family photography business was founded in 1900, the same year as Headrow Gallery, and the two once stood opposite each other in Leeds city centre. Before taking the reins at the gallery, Max enjoyed a distinguished 20-year career behind the lens, photographing everyone from Members of Parliament to sports icons and pop stars.