The allure of the sea awaits you at the Royal Society of Marine Artists Annual Exhibition 2026.
Organised by the Royal Society of Marine Artists’ (RSMA), the 81st Annual Exhibition at the Federation of British Artists’ Mall Galleries, features a wide range of work by various artists, all celebrating the power and beauty of the sea.
Rooted in the common theme of the sea and tidal waters, the work spans a range of interesting subjects from eep water shipping and competitive sailing to quiet harbours, marine wildlife to still life.
Delivering diverse interpretations of the sea – by both members and non-members – the works includes painting, sculpture, printmaking, drawing, textiles, and mixed media, making for an immersive and inclusive art experience.
The exhibition also offers several prizes and awards, worth over £5,000, including The Charles Pears Award for an outstanding work by a non-member, presented in memory of the Society’s founder and first President.
Mall Galleries Creative Director Addi Aegisdottir said: “There is a misconception that marine art begins and ends with historic galleons and familiar seaside scenes. The Annual Exhibition demonstrates something much broader and more contemporary. Painters such as Jenny Aitken show incredibly powerful sea and sky studies, and beautifully atmospheric oils which look at how light plays on the water. The level of skill is second-to-none.”
“Young figurative artists may also need more support and encouragement in the practice of painting ‘en plein air.’ Capturing waves accurately requires study over time and careful observation. With the pull of AI and photography as modern, efficient ways to capture a painting subject, younger artists may be missing the natural training ground provided by painting from life.”
Widely considered a flagship survey of marine art today, the Royal Society of Marine Artists Annual Exhibition 2026 is a vibrant and thoughtful celebration of the sea, and everything on and beneath it.
The exhibit will take place at Mall Galleries in London from 16 to 26 September 2026 from 10am – 5pm. No bookings required. Admission fee is £7 (Free for Friends of Mall Galleries and under 25s, concessions available).
You can also view the exhibit online and buy artwork here : Royal Society of Marine Artists | Annual Exhibition 2026 | Mall Galleries
(Images and information via press release)
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