Exploring Contemporary British Art: The RBA Annual Exhibition 2026
From traditional painting to experimental work, the RBA 2026 exhibition presents a snapshot of contemporary British practice.
06/03/2026
The Royal Society of British Artists Annual Exhibition 2026 at Mall Galleries, presents a wide-ranging selection of contemporary work across painting, drawing, printmaking and sculpture. Bringing together works from Society members alongside artists selected through open submission, the exhibition offered a strong overview of current artistic practice in the UK.
Founded in 1823, the Royal Society of British Artists has a long history of supporting professional artists and promoting visual arts outside the traditional academy system of the time. Over two centuries later, the Society continues to provide opportunities for artists to exhibit their work, develop their careers and engage with audiences through its annual programme of exhibitions and activities.
The annual exhibition remains central to this mission. Each year it highlights the diversity of artistic voices working today, welcoming artists from different backgrounds and disciplines. The result is an exhibition that reflects both technical skill and individual interpretation, where traditional subjects such as portraiture, landscape and still life sit alongside more contemporary and experimental approaches.
A Broad View of Contemporary Practice
One of the defining characteristics of the Royal Society of British Artists exhibition is its breadth. Rather than focusing on a single theme or medium, the show embraces a wide range of ideas and techniques. Visitors encounter carefully observed figurative works, expressive landscapes, detailed still life compositions and more conceptual pieces, all presented within the same exhibition.
This diversity creates a snapshot of contemporary British art, revealing how artists continue to reinterpret familiar subjects through new perspectives, materials and working methods. It also highlights the continued importance of strong drawing, composition and craftsmanship within modern practice.
Mall Galleries and Artist-Led Exhibitions
Mall Galleries has been closely associated with the Royal Society of British Artists for decades, serving as the primary venue for the Society’s annual exhibitions. This long-standing partnership provides a professional and highly respected platform for both members and selected non-members to present their work to a wide audience.
The gallery’s spaces are particularly well-suited to the RBA’s diverse programme, accommodating a variety of media, scales and styles. Its central London location also ensures strong visibility and engagement with collectors, critics and art enthusiasts, reinforcing the Society’s mission to support contemporary British artists. Beyond the exhibition itself, the RBA and Mall Galleries collaborate on talks, demonstrations and events, helping to foster ongoing artistic development and a closer connection between artists and the public.
The New Daler-Rowney Prize
Among the awards presented during the exhibition, the Daler-Rowney Prize recognises outstanding artistic quality and expression.
The 2026 Daler-Rowney Prize was awarded to Anna Thomas for her painting Outstretched by Pots.
“I was thrilled to have three of my paintings accepted into the RBA Annual Exhibition. It was such an honour to see my work alongside so many artists I admire and to be part of this prestigious exhibition within the beautiful Mall Galleries.
The evening was made even more extraordinary and exciting for me as I was awarded The Daler-Rowney Prize for my painting ‘Outstretched by Pots’. I was overjoyed and slightly overwhelmed, returning the next day to take in all the incredible work in the exhibition more calmly!
Daler-Rowney have continued to be part of my art practice since my student days, so receiving this award and being able to choose from their materials is especially meaningful.
‘Outstretched by Pots’ was created using oil and cold wax. This is a medium that I relish as it can be worked in so many different ways and combined with a delicious variety of materials. I look forward to exploring this technique further with the help of this generous prize.”
Supporting Artists Today
The Royal Society of British Artists Annual Exhibition continues to play an important role in supporting artists and encouraging engagement with contemporary art. By bringing together Society members and artists selected through open submission, the exhibition creates space for both established and emerging voices.
Through this platform, the Society continues its long tradition of celebrating artistic practice while providing opportunities for artists to share their work with a wider audience.
For more information about the RBA, visit: https://www.therba.org/.
For more information about Anna, visit: https://www.annathomas.art.
