Visit The Royal West of England Academy

The RWA, Bristol’s first art gallery, is thrilled to showcase world-class visual art from all over the globe to the region. The vision is to be the premier centre for the display, investigation, and practise of visual arts in the South West, and to be recognised as a place that improves and nourishes the lives of people from all groups and backgrounds. The RWA is the UK’s only Royal Academy of Art housed in its own, original, purpose-built gallery, and is set in a stunning Grade II* listed edifice in the centre of the city.

With its extensive programme of exhibitions, events, workshops, seminars, and lectures, the RWA seeks to present excellent art to the broadest possible audience as well as to promote understanding and appreciation of art at the highest level. In addition to noteworthy contemporary artists (including RWA Academicians), significant historic works are also exhibited, often for the first time in the city or region, creating new situations and dialogues. Engagement and learning are essential to the RWA’s mission and future. With the Education and Participation teams’ efforts, as well as through the renowned RWA Drawing School courses and workshops, the RWA hopes to develop artistic potential and promote creative endeavour. There are some outstanding shows archived at the RWA that you can see when you visit the organization.