Discover 500+ Contemporary Works at the 173rd RWA Annual Open Exhibition

Autumn in Bristol brings a fresh wave of culture, and the Royal West of England Academy (RWA) is setting the stage with its flagship event of the season. Opening its doors on Saturday, 12 September, the 173rd Annual Open Exhibition returns as the gallery’s largest and most diverse event of the year, bringing together over 500 original artworks from 381 emerging and established artists.

Whether you are a seasoned collector or simply looking for an inspiring afternoon in Clifton, this massive showcase spans sculpture, video, ceramics, printmaking, and painting. Beyond the gallery walls, this year's event offers brand-new ways to connect directly with the creators and immerse yourself in the local art scene.

Exhibition Highlights & New Events

• Introduction to Collecting Art (19 September, 11:00 AM): Curious about buying original art? Join RWA Academicians Ione Parkin, Sara Dudman, and Pennie Elfick alongside Curator James Russell for a practical session. Learn how to choose pieces for your home or office, budget effectively, and approach art as an investment.

• Tuesday Late Opens (Every Tuesday, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM): Unwind after work with after-hours access to the galleries. Operating every Tuesday evening throughout the run, these extended hours feature rotating one-off events, special talks, and pop-up experiences.

• Meet the Artists & Tailored Tours: Dive deeper into the collection with six distinct tour formats tailored to your style—from quick lunch-break overviews to in-depth curator walks.

Make the Most of Your Visit

With hundreds of pieces on display, one trip might not be enough. If you plan to return throughout the season, grab an Annual Art Pass for unlimited entry to all RWA exhibitions for a full year.

Plan your visit, book event tickets, and experience one of Bristol's premier autumn cultural traditions at the RWA this season.