The Royal Academy’s 2023 Summer Exhibition (13 June – 20 August)

Photo credit: © 9 Hertford Street

We are so lucky to have the Royal Academy of Arts nearby and it’s almost time for the launch of its annual Summer Exhibition. Opening on 13 June, the prestigious open submission exhibition will feature the works of both emerging and established artists. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see new works by some well known names, as well as introducing you to artists you may not have heard of.

Typically, two-thirds of the entrants are non-Academicians and 5,000+ works are sold.

The Royal Academy’s Summer Exhibition is the oldest in the world; its first show was in 1769 (a year after the Academy was established with Joshua Reynolds as President) and has been held each year since.

This year, the exhibition will be co-ordinated by David Remfry RA. He has chosen the theme Only Connect, referencing Forster’s famous quote from Howard’s End.

Celebrating the exhibition, Mayfair will be bedecked with flags by the wonderful Bob and Roberta Smith RA, on the theme A Puzzle 4U.

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