Founded in 1768, the Royal Academy of Arts in London is an independent institution where art is produced, exhibited, and debated. The gallery hosts exhibitions and events. For patrons of the Central Park Collection seeking an immersive and thought-provoking art experience, the Royal Academy will more than fit the bill. This post covers all the essential information needed to plan a visit to the Royal Academy of Arts.
What’s on at the Royal Academy of Arts?
The RA hosts a mixture of paid exhibitions, free displays, and public events. Take a peek at what’s on at the art museum for summer 2023.
Free displays at the Royal Academy of Arts
Although the art gallery is privately owned, there are some galleries open to the public for free.
Highlights from the RA Collection is the principal free gallery at the Royal Academy. This exhibition displays portraits, landscapes, and sculptures from world-renowned artists. A key piece includes a 16th century copy of Leonardo Da Vinci’s Last Supper, mimicking the original painting on show in Milan, Italy.
In addition, the Highlights gallery contains the “Taddei Tondo” – the only marble sculpture by Michelangelo to exist in the UK.
These critical pieces are displayed alongside key works by leading British artists from the last 250 years.
Visiting the free displays at the Royal Academy is one of the best things to do while staying at hotels in Central London on a budget.
Summer Exhibition at the Royal Academy of Arts
The Summer Exhibition is an annual display at the Royal Academy of Arts on show in June, July, and August.
What makes the show unique is that it’s an open submission exhibition – meaning that anyone is welcome to submit their artwork for inclusion. In fact, the RA Summer Exhibition is the world’s oldest exhibition of this kind. Curated by a Royal Academician, it has occurred every year since 1769.
Work must adhere to a theme, with the topic of the 2023 Summer Exhibition being “Only Connect”.
Pieces selected span every conceivable medium across traditional and experimental painting, prints, film, photography, sculpture, and architectural works. All are welcome to submit, including established artists, Royal Academicians, and new and emerging talent.
If you are seeking hotels in Central London during the peak months, the Summer Exhibition is guaranteed to create everlasting memories. Who knows, you might encounter the next big name in the world of art.
Events at the Royal Academy of Arts
The Royal Academy also hosts a series of events including workshops, talks, courses, exclusive tours, and evening events. Once you have confirmed your travel dates, do consult the calendar to see what events are on at the RA.
Getting to the Royal Academy of Arts
The Royal Academy of Arts is centrally located at Burlington House on Piccadilly.
The gallery is a 5-minute walk from the Piccadilly and Green Park Underground stations. Guests of the Central Park Collection may opt to take a scenic walk through Hyde Park and Mayfair to reach the RA.