Rhianna Kenyon Shortlisted for National Visual Artists Association Award as Small Business Entrepreneur

For many independent artists, national recognition can be difficult to achieve without the backing of a large studio, agency or established commercial network. That is why Rhianna Kenyon’s recent success is particularly significant.

The founder of creative business Nan & Romeo has been shortlisted in the Professional & Established Artist category at the 2026 Visual Artists Association Awards, placing her alongside some of the UK’s most recognised independent artists.

For Kenyon, the nomination represents more than artistic recognition. It highlights the success of a small business owner who has built a brand through creativity, persistence and community engagement rather than major investment or large-scale backing.

Running an independent creative business often means balancing multiple roles at once, from artist and designer to marketer, administrator and business owner. For entrepreneurs in the arts sector, national awards can be especially meaningful because they recognise not only the quality of the work itself, but also the ability to build a sustainable business around it.

Kenyon has grown Nan & Romeo through bespoke commissions, public artwork and striking window displays, developing a distinctive style that has helped her stand out in a competitive market. Her work has attracted attention from both businesses and local organisations looking for creative ways to bring energy and colour to their spaces.

The Visual Artists Association Awards are designed to celebrate artists who are making an impact commercially as well as creatively. Categories focus on originality, entrepreneurship, audience engagement and professional development, making the shortlist particularly relevant for small business owners working within the creative industries.

For many entrepreneurs, recognition at this level can open the door to new partnerships, larger commissions and increased visibility. It can also help build credibility with future clients, particularly for independent businesses competing against larger companies and agencies.

Kenyon’s shortlist nomination is a reminder that small creative businesses can achieve national success through strong branding, consistent work and a clear artistic identity. In a sector where visibility can often be difficult to secure, her recognition shows that independent entrepreneurs are increasingly being recognised for the value they bring to both the creative economy and the wider business community.