RUA 2024 - 143rd Annual Exhibition at the Ulster Museum

143rd Royal Ulster Academy Annual Exhibition

Belfast, Northern Ireland – The Royal Ulster Academy (RUA) proudly announces the opening of its 143rd Annual Exhibition, taking place at the Ulster Museum from October 18, 2024, to January 6, 2025. This eagerly anticipated event stands as a highlight of Northern Ireland’s cultural calendar, showcasing an extraordinary array of artwork from both established and emerging artists.

Quotes:

“The Royal Ulster Academy’s Annual Exhibition is a highlight of Northern Ireland’s cultural calendar. We’re bringing together an incredible mix of art from both seasoned and emerging artists. It’s a fantastic celebration of creativity and innovation, and I’m thrilled for everyone to experience the wide range of talent and artistic achievements we have this year,” said Daniel Dowling, President of the Royal Ulster Academy.

"The Royal Ulster Academy’s exhibition consistently shines as a highlight of our autumn and winter exhibition schedule, and this year is no exception." — Kathryn Thomson, Chief Executive, National Museums NI.

"KPMG is delighted to once again be the main sponsor of the 143rd Royal Ulster Academy Annual Exhibition... promoting the arts and culture and, in doing so, giving back to the communities in which we operate." — Johnny Hanna, Partner-in-Charge, KPMG in Northern Ireland.

As the largest and longest-standing body of practicing visual artists in Northern Ireland, founded in 1879, the RUA continues its tradition of excellence by providing a prestigious platform for artists across a wide range of disciplines. This year’s exhibition will feature nearly 300 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, audiovisual installations, ceramics, textiles, and more.

The exhibition will showcase works from approximately 80 members of the Academy, including some of Northern Ireland's most renowned artists, alongside 200 pieces selected from a public submission, offering a broad and inclusive representation of contemporary art. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to experience this vast collection in the renowned galleries of the Ulster Museum, located in the heart of Belfast’s Botanic Gardens.

Newly Elected Members
The RUA is also pleased to welcome three newly elected Associate Members who have made significant contributions to the arts: Emma Spence ARUA, Connor Maguire ARUA, and Daniel Nelis ARUA. Their inclusion in the Academy highlights their exceptional talent and dedication to the visual arts, and their works will be prominently featured in this year’s exhibition.

Guest Adjudicator
Adding to the excitement, the RUA is delighted to announce that this year’s Guest Adjudicator is the renowned comedian, broadcaster, and artist Phill Jupitus. Known for his wit and creativity, Jupitus brings a unique perspective to the adjudication process, further enhancing the prestige of the exhibition. His involvement underscores the Academy's commitment to embracing diverse voices and perspectives in the arts.

Main Sponsor
The RUA is proud to have KPMG as the main sponsor of this year’s exhibition. KPMG has been a long-standing partner of the Academy, playing a crucial role in supporting the arts and fostering creativity in Northern Ireland. Their continued sponsorship highlights the importance of collaboration between the business community and the arts, ensuring that this prestigious event can reach and inspire audiences across the region.

Awards and Opportunities
The exhibition also serves as a stage for recognizing artistic excellence, with numerous financial awards and exhibition opportunities available. Among these, the KPMG Young Artist Award stands out, aiming to celebrate and support the next generation of artistic talent.

Education and Engagement
Education remains a cornerstone of the RUA’s mission. Throughout the duration of the exhibition, a comprehensive education program will be available, catering to schools, colleges, and the general public. This program includes:

• Guided Tours in English, Spanish, and Irish, offering insights into the works on display and the artists behind them.
• Workshops and Masterclasses led by esteemed artists, designed to inspire and hone the skills of participants at all levels.
• Artist Spotlights: Visitors can engage directly with the artists through spotlight sessions, offering deeper insights into their creative processes.
• Meet the Artist Sessions for Key Stage 3, 4, and A-Level students, combining guided tours with live demonstrations and discussions.
• Lectures and Talks that delve into various aspects of art history and contemporary practices, featuring renowned experts and thought leaders.

Visitor Information
The RUA’s Annual Exhibition is free to the public, inviting art enthusiasts, collectors, and casual visitors alike to explore the vibrant world of contemporary art. Last year, the exhibition attracted 100,000 visitors, with total sales exceeding £200,000, underscoring the exhibition's importance as both a cultural and commercial event.

All artworks are available for purchase, with prices ranging from £100 to £20,000 and beyond, making this an accessible event for art lovers with varying budgets.

Exhibition Dates: October 18, 2024 – January 6, 2025
Location: The Ulster Museum, Botanic Gardens, Belfast
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 10am – 5:00pm (Closed Mondays)

For more information about the exhibition, educational programs, or to arrange group visits, please contact [email protected]

About the Royal Ulster Academy
Founded in 1879, the Royal Ulster Academy is committed to promoting and advancing the visual arts in Northern Ireland. Through its annual exhibitions, educational initiatives, and awards, the RUA supports artists and engages the public in the appreciation of art across all mediums.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Ulster Museum, Botanic Gardens, Belfast, United Kingdom