The Royal Academy of Arts is an artist-led gallery and art school at Burlington House on Piccadilly in London. Founded in 1768, it combines free displays from its collection with ticketed exhibitions that change through the year. Look for paintings, sculpture, drawings and architectural designs by artists including J.M.W. Turner, John Constable and David Hockney, then take time to study the building’s classical façade and statues. The annual Summer Exhibition brings together work selected from open submissions, including pieces by established and emerging artists.
An artist-led academy since 1768
George III founded the Royal Academy of Arts in 1768 to support artists and strengthen the standing of their profession. It remains an independent institution led by artists and architects, with exhibition spaces and an art school. Its work includes presenting art to the public as well as teaching and supporting artists.
The Royal Academy moved to Burlington House on Piccadilly in the nineteenth century. Today, the address brings together historic rooms and changing exhibitions. Its annual Summer Exhibition has run since 1769 and invites open submissions, showing work by Royal Academicians and other artists. It is a long-running way to see a wide range of contemporary work in one visit.
Collection displays and changing exhibitions
Free displays present works from the Royal Academy’s collection, which has grown through donations by elected Academicians. The collection includes paintings, drawings, sculpture, photographs and architectural designs, with artists such as Joshua Reynolds, Angelica Kauffman, John Constable, J.M.W. Turner and David Hockney represented. Greek and Roman statues also appear among the displays.
The Academy does not keep its entire collection on permanent view. Instead, free displays show selected works, while ticketed exhibitions bring different artists and themes into the galleries. Past exhibitions have included large-scale paintings and shows focused on particular artists or art movements. Check the current programme before planning around a specific exhibition, since the displays change.
Look closely at Burlington House
The Piccadilly façade is part of the visit. Its arched windows, columns, cornices and sculpted figures give the exterior a classical character. Statues of Newton, Locke, Adam Smith and Milton connect the building’s decorative programme with science, philosophy and literature. The courtyard provides a place to take in the façade before heading inside.
The Royal Academy’s gift shop sells items linked to current exhibitions alongside prints, homeware, jewellery and other art-themed gifts. The building also has a restaurant. If you are visiting for an exhibition, allow time to explore the free displays as well, since they give a separate view of the Academy’s collection and history.
Perguntas frequentes
Is the Royal Academy of Arts free to enter?
Some collection displays are free. Temporary exhibitions, including the Summer Exhibition, may require a ticket.
Where is the Royal Academy of Arts?
It is at Burlington House, Piccadilly, London W1J 0BD.
What can you see at the Royal Academy of Arts?
Displays include paintings, drawings, sculpture, photographs and architectural designs. The Academy also hosts changing exhibitions and the annual Summer Exhibition.
When is a quieter time to visit?
Weekdays and early mornings are suggested for avoiding crowds.
