Founded in 1826, the Royal Scottish Academy maintains a unique position in Scotland as an independently funded institution lead by eminent artists and architects, whose purpose is to promote and support the creation, understanding and enjoyment of the visual arts through exhibitions and related educational events.
In addition to a continuous programme of innovative and exciting new exhibitions, the RSA also administers scholarships, awards and residencies for artists living and working in Scotland. There are always new upcoming exhibitions, artist talks and opportunities.
The RSA's historic collection of important artworks and an extensive archive of related material chronicling art and architecture in Scotland over the last 180 years are housed in the Dean Gallery and are available to researchers by appointment only.
The Royal Scottish Academy Building is situated on The Mound adjacent to the National Gallery of Scotland. The building is managed by the National Galleries of Scotland, but the 1910 Order grants the RSA permanent administration office in the building. Exhibition space is shared throughout the year with the NGS and other organisations (ESSA).
The building, like its neighbouring gallery, was designed by William Henry Playfair and first opened to the public in 1826. It has recently been renovated and refurbished, as part of the National Galleries of Scotland's Playfair Project - a dramatic scheme linking the two buildings via an underground extension.
Transport
Getting there by aeroplane:- Nearest airport is Edinburgh Airport. There is a regular bus service from the airport to the city centre.
Opening Hours:
Monday to Saturday - 10am to 5pm.
Sundays - 12 noon to 5pm.
(Admission charges may apply).
Image credits: 1. Of Natural and Mystical Things, 2013. 2. RSA Open Exhibition, 2016. 3. Eva Ullrich (left) & Ernesto Canovas (right), Open Dialogues, 2014. 4. Deb Marshall, RSA New Contemporaries 2015. 5. Kenny Hunter RSA(elect) (foreground), Ronald Forbes RSA & Alan Davie RSA (background), RSA Annual 2015. 6. Steven Peebles (left) & Ben Martin (right), RSA New Contemporaries 2015. 7. David Mach HRSA (foregoround) & Alan Davie RSA (background), RSA Annual 2015
