The Royal Academy’s iconic Summer Exhibition returns this year, once again transforming the Main Galleries of Burlington House into a vibrant celebration of contemporary creativity. Running from 17 June to 17 August 2025, this beloved annual event brings together an extraordinary collection of over 1,700 artworks, handpicked from an open submission that attracts thousands of entries each year.
Now in its 257th year, the Summer Exhibition is the longest-running open-submission art show in the world — and it continues to surprise, inspire and delight.
A Celebration of Contemporary Creativity
Curated this year by acclaimed architect Farshid Moussavi RA and her dedicated committee, the 2025 exhibition spans a rich spectrum of media. Expect a dynamic mix of prints, paintings, photography, sculpture, film, and architectural models, offering a snapshot of what artists and creatives are making right now.
One of the most exciting aspects of the Summer Exhibition is its democratic spirit. Works by household names sit side by side with pieces from emerging and self-taught artists, giving visitors the rare chance to discover new talents and see the art world from a fresh perspective.
A Chance to Take Art Home
Art lovers will also be thrilled to know that most works are for sale, with prices starting under £250. Whether you’re an experienced collector or taking the first step into owning original art, the Summer Exhibition is the perfect place to find a piece you love. Better still, proceeds from sales support both the exhibiting artists and the future work of the Royal Academy, which is a registered charity and receives no government funding.
What Not to Miss
This year’s highlights include:
- A playful outdoor installation by Ryan Gander, featuring five enormous inflatable spheres in the RA courtyard
- New paintings by Tracey Emin, continuing her deeply personal exploration of emotion and identity
- Sculptural works suspended from the gallery ceiling, transforming the space and inviting viewers to look up as well as around
The exhibition covers a range of topics and styles — from the humorous and surreal to the political and poignant. Some of the content deals with sensitive social and political themes, and visitors are encouraged to contact the RA in advance if they would like more information on this aspect of the show.
Plan Your Visit
A visit to the Summer Exhibition is not just a gallery trip, but an experience. Whether you come to browse, to buy, or simply to soak in the atmosphere, you’ll be stepping into a vibrant and inclusive celebration of art in all its forms.
Join us at Burlington House this summer to explore, enjoy and support contemporary art in all its diversity. The Summer Exhibition 2025 promises to be a colourful, thought-provoking and unmissable part of the cultural calendar.