Royal West of England Academy (RWA)

The Academy was founded by Ellen Sharples with early benefactors that include Isambard Kingdom Brunel and Prince Albert.

What to see at the Royal West of England Academy (RWA)

The RWA is housed inside a Grade II*-listed building that was opened in 1858. Its interior is lit by natural light from large skylights and it is noted for a replica of the Parthenon Frieze.

It has five galleries with a permanent collection that is comprised of over 1,700 works of art including works by prominent British artists including artists from the Bloomsbury, Newlyn and St Ives schools. The gallery focuses on both traditional and contemporary British art.

Temporary exhibitions at the Royal West of England Academy (RWA)

The Academy also hosts a programme of temporary exhibitions. Current and planned exhibitions include:

Artist Network Exhibition 2025
The exhibition (until 11 May 2025) includes over 50 works by members of the RWA’s Artist Network. These artists work across various media and contribute regularly to the RWA’s programme. The group also supports fundraising events and helps shape the organisation’s work with artists. Artists featured include Ashar, Julia Adams, Faith Chevannes, Naomi Kendall, Melissa Wraxall and many others.

Handstitched Heritage
Handstitched Heritage (16 May–15 June 2025) features work by over 30 Royal School of Needlework Apprentice and Future Tutor alumni. Each artist uses traditional hand embroidery techniques in their own practice. Many also teach these methods to others. The exhibition highlights a wide range of styles and approaches within this heritage craft, reflecting both individual creativity and a focus on preserving skills for future generations.

Soft Power: Lives Told Through Textile Art
This exhibition (17 May–10 August 2025) explores how cloth conveys personal and collective stories. Textile artworks examine identity, empowerment and change, reflecting lived experiences. The pieces highlight hidden struggles, major events and connections between women across cultures. The exhibition features work by contemporary textile artists from around the world.

Visiting the Royal West of England Academy (RWA)

The Royal West of England Academy (RWA) is located around midway between Clifton and the city centre. It is close to the University of Bristol and there are several interesting sights nearby interest including the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, which is only a four-minute walk away.

Admission to the permanent gallery is free of charge, however, there is a fee to visit many of the temporary exhibitions. Exhibitions are half price with the National Art Pass.

The RWA has its own on-site cafe, however, the gallery’s location near the university ensures that there are plenty of other places to eat and drink nearby. The gallery also has an excellent gift shop.

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