Royal Academy of arts Summer exhibition
The 256th RA Summer Exhibition - ‘Making Space’
18 June – 18 August 2024
This was the year I decided to enter the Summer Exhibition again after 2 previous tries.
There was a very brief initial discussion with my mentor about pricing the 2 large pieces I decided to submit; chosen because they were large fabric sculptures that could be easily transported by me. They were unusual, quirky, pieces that would hold their own as fine art using techniques of painting, hand and machine stitching and appliqué.
How I Applied
I was extremely anxious on how to apply but with advice, I registered my interest with the RA in very early January and created an online account. The RA then sent information on the entry process and fees for one or two works, as well as links on how to photograph your work. They also said the number of entries is capped at 16,500 regardless of deadline and 4000 digital entries would be shortlisted to be delivered for the final round of judging. From the initial registration, things moved very fast. I organised a very competent photographer to photograph my two sculptures because I was nervous that my phone camera would not do the sculptures justice.
I was sent a good variety of photos along with close-ups a day after the shoot. I created a folder on my computer with the fantastic photos and added titles and prices. When it came time to finally enter on line, I had left no room for error. When the entry opened on the 9th January, I just clicked a few buttons and with very shaky hands and heart, submitted my work into the 2024 Summer Exhibition. There was nothing else I could do but wait. I felt I had done my best and given it my complete attention.
Digitally Shortlisted First Round of Judging
On 20th March two separate emails came through from the RA. I sat very still in front of my computer to read the letters – yes, proper letters stating that the “Summer Exhibition Committee have given careful consideration to your digital entries and would like you to deliver your artworks to the Academy for the final round of judging”. They enclosed a delivery pack, comprising of barcodes and labels, and a map with clear instructions of where to deliver. I also had to register a time to deliver the work on my given delivery day, 8th May. This letter created more excitement and thought as now I had to figure out how to deliver my work by 13:30 to London. I was thinking of train strikes and rain and generally worrying about everything. I had over a month to strategise and I eventually calmed down and realised I was capable of delivering my two large sculptures on my own. However, my son wanted to drive me up and deliver the sculptures with me. I don’t think he had any idea of what the RA Summer Exhibition was about.
Delivery Day
May 8th was a sunny day and there was little traffic in London. We arrived at the Academy an hour early, and there were no crowds delivering, or queues. The signage for delivery was very clear and I took a brave step and asked one of the operatives if I could deliver early. I was guided to the side warehouse where there were staff with white cotton gloves receiving the work and handling my sculptures with love and tender care. We made sure the labels were correctly fastened and I waved my sculptures good bye, knowing they would be in very capable hands. Now the wait.
Notification of Acceptance
On the 31st May two more emails arrived. I sat all day without opening the emails, too scared to read the news. My son came by and insisted I open the emails. “We are delighted to let you know that your artwork LOOKING FOR SPACE has been selected for this years show”. Another email telling me that FLOATING was also selected. I was so shocked that both my entries were accepted. We were jubilant and ecstatic. The letters gave more information about Exhibitor cards, Varnishing Day Reception and a special Service for Artists to be held at St. James Church, Piccadilly on the 10th June.
Varnishing Day
The 10th of June was a very windy day with the threat of rain. My train was virtually empty and the bus from Victoria got to the RA in record time. I don’t think people work on Mondays – traffic everywhere was so light. Upon arrival to the courtyard, the atmosphere was jolly and special, upbeat with 3 musicians playing on steel drums.
The crowd of artists attending the Varnishing Day were colourful, happy, chatty, friendly, nervous. There was an air of excitement and promise. I was deeply moved and couldn’t hold back my tears of gratitude and elation. The staff were joyful, kind and supportive.
At the correct time, the staff came into the courtyard in their yellow vests and gently herded us across the busy Piccadilly Road, all the while, artists talking to each other about how many times they had entered and been accepted into past Summer Exhibitions. We made our way miraculously without any injuries, into the magnificent St James Church. I have passed the church so many times but never ventured inside. Two floors packed with artists listening to a 45-minute service and glorious singing especially for us. We were very still and respectful when leaving the church and slowly made our way back to the Royal Academy, up the stairs, showing our Exhibitor card, being handed the book with list of works by very happy staff and proceeded into the high-ceilinged vast exhibition.
We all had a personal mission to walk through the rooms to search for our work. I did every room slowly, while being served drinks and very tasty nibbles during the entire search. I didn’t look at the palm sized book of listed works as I was too mesmerised by the walls and work and listening to the other artists’ comments.
Finally, I entered a room bathed with turmeric walls - it was like walking into sunshine. This was my room. The Lecture Room curated by Veronica Ryan RA who chose the wall colour for the healing properties of the culinary spice, turmeric. It was the most perfect room for my sculptures. I was speechless; in awe and wondered how I could get a photo of me with the work in situ. Two very open and friendly artists spoke to me and apologised for telling me I had a little bit of food on my face. We had a friendly laugh, and they were very happy to take photos of me with my work.
The ending time of 2pm gradually arrived and we sporadically made our way home. Apparently, there was a big party taking place that evening as well as private views for the next 8 days until the exhibition opened to the general public.
I’ve visited several times with family and friends and every time there is always something new to experience. As an exhibiting artist I can visit any time without booking and bring a guest. I actually could not believe how many red dots appeared from my first visit to 18 days later! Friends who have visited without me, have posted photos of my work online with complimentary comments. Other artists who I know and ones I don’t know, have also posted and tagged me so that I may add their post to my Instagram.
In Retrospect
This has been the most unexpected and truly enjoyable experience of my entire art life. Out of 16,500 entries, 1710 are listed in the Summer Exhibition and I am numbers 1591 and 1592. I feel blessed and privileged to have my work exhibited in a prestigious institution, exhibiting alongside Royal Academicians and colleagues. Applying to the Summer Exhibition has been an uplifting, life affirming experience. I least expected being treated with respect from RA staff and the attention they gave to artists; ready to assist in person and online. My work is being seen by a huge audience; who knows where it will take me. The whole experience was well worth the emotions and each year I will keep applying.