Outside the Royal Academy
Opening this week in London is the world’s largest open entry exhibition, which has a legacy of 250 years of excellence in artwork. Anyone can enter, with all art work chosen by leading artists, and the result is a colourful and packed celebration of art and architecture from across the world.
The Royal Academy is situated in Burlington House near Piccadilly Circus and has been in existence since King George III first set up this institution to promote the arts of design in Britain through education and exhibition in 1768. Since 1769 the Summer Exhibition has run every year without exception, growing in size and prestige ever since.
Inside the Royal Academy. And yes that is a man in a beret!
As you stroll round the exhibition, pick up a cool glass of Pimms or sparkling elderflower, then take a seat to admire the larger paintings or squeeze into the little room which is covered from floor to ceiling with pictures, many of them teeny tiny. There are also architectural exhibits, videos, photography and sculpture to ponder, and should you feel inclined, most of the exhibits are also for sale.
The exhibition is open everyday 10am-6pm until August 17. On Fridays you can stay until 10pm, making a very cultural start to your weekend in London. When you’ve finished, visit the Keeper’s House for dinner or simply stroll out to Hyde Park, revived and inspired.
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Megan Donnelly is a writer and former Londoner, currently residing at London-by-Sea, or Brighton as it’s otherwise known. You can read more about her travels at:
www.postcardstomysister.wordpress.com.
