Royal Academy of Arts
London Learn more about what's on at Royal Academy of Arts and the artists shaping its programme.The Royal Academy of Arts (RA) is a historic art institution based at Burlington House on Piccadilly in London’s Mayfair, a short walk from Green Park and Piccadilly Circus. Founded in 1768, it has a unique status as an independent, privately funded, artist‑led institution dedicated to promoting the creation, enjoyment, and appreciation of the visual arts. The RA is home to Britain’s longest‑established art school, the Royal Academy Schools, and is renowned for championing both art and architecture through exhibitions, teaching, and public debate.
Established by a group of visionary artists and architects, including Sir Joshua Reynolds, the Royal Academy remains unique as an artist-led institution, governed by its elected Royal Academicians. Today the RA occupies an expanded campus that links Burlington House with Burlington Gardens, combining historic 18th‑ and 19th‑century architecture with contemporary gallery spaces. This artist‑led model keeps the institution closely connected to current practice while preserving its deep historical foundations in British art and education.
The RA’s programme spans centuries and styles—from Old Master and classical painting to cutting-edge contemporary art and performance. It is particularly known for its annual Summer Exhibition, the world’s longest-running open-submission exhibition. Other landmark exhibitions have included Antony Gormley (2019), Picasso and Paper (2020), and Marina Abramović (2023–24).
With its blend of heritage, innovation, and artistic leadership, the Royal Academy of Arts is both an architectural and cultural landmark and a lively venue for exhibitions, talks, and learning programmes in central London.
Royal Academy of Arts FAQs
How do I find out what’s on at the Royal Academy?
The Royal Academy of Arts lists all current and upcoming exhibitions, events, talks, and courses on its official website. Visitors can browse dedicated exhibition pages for opening dates, ticket information, and programme details. You can also follow the Royal Academy of Arts on Ocula to stay informed about major contemporary and historical exhibitions
Who are some of the artists who have shown at the Royal Academy?
The Royal Academy has presented exhibitions by leading artists such as Marina Abramović, Antony Gormley, Tracey Emin, and Ai Weiwei, alongside numerous Royal Academicians and international artists. Its programme ranges from major solo exhibitions to thematic and historical surveys.
What contemporary art galleries are nearby the Royal Academy?
The Royal Academy of Arts sits in Mayfair, one of London’s densest gallery districts, surrounded by leading commercial galleries including Gagosian, Hauser & Wirth, and Sadie Coles HQ, among many others. Visitors can use Ocula’s London Art Guide to plan a full itinerary that combines a visit to the RA with nearby contemporary art spaces.
Can I buy artworks by artists who are showing or have shown at the Royal Academy?
The Royal Academy of Arts offers works for sale through its annual Summer Exhibition, where many of the exhibited pieces are available to purchase, supporting both participating artists and the Royal Academy’s Schools. Outside the Summer Exhibition, curated RA exhibitions are generally non‑selling museum‑style shows.
Is the Royal Academy building accessible?
The Royal Academy of Arts is committed to accessibility and provides step‑free access, lifts, accessible toilets, and free wheelchair loans (subject to availability). Assistance dogs are welcome, and the RA offers a range of accessible events and services, such as touch tours or British Sign Language‑interpreted tours from time to time. Visitors should check the RA’s website for the latest, detailed accessibility information before their visit
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