British Art Societies

This collection of profiles highlights some of the most influential art societies in the United Kingdom, each playing a vital role in shaping the landscape of British art and supporting generations of British artists. Curated by Red Rag Gallery, a leading specialist in contemporary British art, these summaries offer insight into the traditions, values, and creative impact of each organisation.

New English Art Club (NEAC)

The New English Art Club, founded in 1886, emerged as a progressive alternative to the Royal Academy, championing the influence of French Impressionism and modern European painting. NEAC has long been associated with some of the most respected British artists, particularly those committed to observational and figurative practice. Its emphasis on draughtsmanship and painting from life continues to resonate strongly within the wider world of British art.

Today, NEAC remains a key force in contemporary British art, with its annual exhibition at the Mall Galleries attracting collectors, curators, and art enthusiasts. The society’s educational programmes and drawing schools help nurture the next generation of British contemporary artists, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of the UK’s artistic community.

The Pastel Society (PS)

Founded in 1898, the Pastel Society is dedicated to promoting pastel and dry media as expressive and sophisticated artistic forms. Its members include many leading British contemporary artists who specialise in colour, texture, and mark‑making. The society has played an important role in elevating pastel within the broader context of British art.

The Pastel Society’s annual exhibition showcases a wide range of styles, from traditional portraiture to bold contemporary abstraction. Through workshops and demonstrations, the society supports both established and emerging British artists, ensuring that pastel remains a vibrant part of the UK’s contemporary art scene.

Royal Society of British Artists (RBA)

Established in 1823, the Royal Society of British Artists is one of the UK’s most respected exhibiting societies, known for championing high‑quality painting, drawing, and sculpture. The RBA has long been associated with excellence in British art, offering a platform for skilled and innovative British artists working across a range of styles.

The society’s annual exhibition at the Mall Galleries remains a highlight of the contemporary British art calendar. Through awards, scholarships, and mentoring, the RBA continues to support emerging talent, reinforcing its reputation as a vital contributor to the development of British contemporary art.

Royal Birmingham Society of Artists (RBSA)

With origins dating back to 1821, the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists is one of the oldest art societies in the UK. Based in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter, the RBSA has played a central role in promoting British art across the Midlands and beyond. Its membership includes a diverse range of British contemporary artists working in painting, sculpture, printmaking, and craft.

The RBSA Gallery hosts an active programme of exhibitions and community events, helping to make contemporary British art accessible to a wide audience. Its commitment to education and inclusivity ensures that the society remains a dynamic force within the UK’s artistic landscape.

Royal Glasgow Institute of the Fine Arts (RGI)

Founded in 1861, the Royal Glasgow Institute of the Fine Arts is a major institution within Scottish and wider British art. The RGI has long provided exhibition opportunities for British artists working across a range of media, helping to shape Glasgow’s reputation as a centre for creativity and innovation.

The RGI’s exhibitions and awards continue to support both established and emerging talent, contributing significantly to the development of contemporary British art in Scotland. Its commitment to artistic excellence ensures its ongoing relevance within the UK’s cultural landscape.

Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours (RI)

Established in 1831, the Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours has played a pivotal role in promoting water‑based media within British art. The society has long championed artists who explore the expressive potential of watercolour, gouache, and acrylic, helping to elevate the medium within the UK.

The RI’s annual exhibition at the Mall Galleries showcases the work of leading British contemporary artists who specialise in water‑based techniques. Its blend of tradition and innovation ensures that watercolour remains a vital part of contemporary British art.

Royal Institute of Oil Painters (ROI)

Founded in 1882, the Royal Institute of Oil Painters is the only major British art society dedicated exclusively to oil painting. The ROI has long been associated with technical mastery and creative innovation, attracting many of the finest British artists working in oils.

The society’s annual exhibition highlights the breadth of contemporary British art in oil, from traditional realism to bold modern expression. Through workshops and open exhibitions, the ROI continues to support and inspire artists who value the richness and versatility of oil painting.

Royal Society of Portrait Painters (RP)

The Royal Society of Portrait Painters, founded in 1891, is dedicated to excellence in portraiture. The society represents many of the UK’s leading portraitists, whose work contributes significantly to the traditions of British art and contemporary figurative practice.

The RP’s annual exhibition is one of the most important showcases of portraiture in the UK, featuring work by both established and emerging British artists. Its commitment to high‑quality portraiture ensures its continued influence within contemporary British art.

Royal Society of Marine Artists (RSMA)

Founded in 1939, the Royal Society of Marine Artists celebrates the sea and maritime subjects within British art. Its members are known for their ability to capture the drama, atmosphere, and beauty of coastal and marine environments.

The RSMA’s annual exhibition showcases a wide range of marine‑themed work by leading British contemporary artists. The society’s commitment to accuracy, observation, and artistic expression ensures that marine art remains a vibrant part of the UK’s cultural heritage.

Royal Scottish Society of Painters in Watercolour (RSW)

Established in 1878, the Royal Scottish Society of Painters in Watercolour promotes excellence in water‑based painting across Scotland. The society has long contributed to the distinctive traditions of Scottish and wider British art.

The RSW’s exhibitions highlight the work of leading British contemporary artists who specialise in watercolour. Its commitment to innovation ensures that the medium continues to evolve within the broader context of contemporary British art.

Royal West of England Academy (RWA)

Founded in 1844, the Royal West of England Academy is one of the UK’s oldest regional art institutions. Based in Bristol, the RWA has long supported the development of British art through exhibitions, education, and community engagement.

The academy’s annual open exhibition attracts submissions from across the UK, showcasing the diversity of contemporary British art. Its commitment to accessibility and artistic excellence ensures its continued relevance within the national art scene.

Royal Watercolour Society (RWS)

Founded in 1804, the Royal Watercolour Society is one of the world’s most influential watercolour societies. It has played a major role in shaping the history of British art, particularly in the development of water‑based media.

Today, the RWS continues to promote innovation within watercolour, supporting British contemporary artists who explore the medium’s expressive potential. Its exhibitions at Bankside Gallery remain a highlight of the contemporary British art calendar.

Society of Women Artists (SWA)

Founded in 1855, the Society of Women Artists was created to champion the work of women within British art. The society has played a vital role in promoting equality and visibility for women artists across the UK.

The SWA’s annual exhibition showcases a wide range of work by established and emerging British contemporary artists. Its commitment to opportunity and representation ensures that women continue to play a central role in shaping the future of contemporary British art.