Overview

Founded in 1768, this is the country’s oldest society concerned solely with the fine arts. As an independent institution it is primarily led by prestigious artists and architects – among its founders were Sir Joshua Reynolds and Sir William Chambers – who were determined to achieve professional standing for British art and architecture. Through the academy's history the prominence of its members has not diminished and past Royal Academicians include John Constable, Thomas Gainsborough, JMW Turner, Lord Leighton and Stanley Spencer, while current members include Norman Foster, Richard Rogers, David Hockney, Tracey Emin, Antony Gormley and Anish Kapoor.

Permanent collection

The collection focuses on British art and artists and mainly ranges from the 18th century to the present day. There are many highlights in its collection of paintings and sculpture, including major works by Reynolds, Gainsborough, Turner, Constable, Alma-Tadema, Flaxman, Millais, Leighton, Waterhouse, Sargent, Spencer and Hockney.

Don't miss

The institution holds a series of major exhibitions throughout the year, including the annual Summer Exhibition, which has run every year since 1768. The exhibition draws together a wide range of new and recent work by established, unknown and emerging artists and is a must-see event for contemporary art-lovers.

Visitor information

The Royal Academy of Art is based in Burlington House, a striking building nestled in the heart of London's West End district. There are several cafes and a restaurant to rest up at and an interesting array of events and talks running in the evenings. See the website for a full programme.