RWA Sculpture Open

About

This dynamic and varied exhibition showcases of some of the most exciting sculptors from across the country and beyond. Almost all of the work is for sale, making the Sculpture Open a perfect opportunity to discover new artists or invest in well-known names. This year we are pleased to announce that our Invited Artist will be Brazilian sculptor, painter and printmaker Ana Maria Pacheco. 

The RWA Sculpture Open will celebrate contemporary sculptural practice in all its many forms. From bronze casting to 3D printing, stone carving to found objects, sculpture is arguably the most diverse of artistic mediums allowing unrivaled freedom in materials, process, form and scale. Crossing boundaries between architecture, design, manufacturing and craft sculpture is a constantly evolving art form that pervades our lives like no other - from public monuments to the coins we carry in our pockets, sculpture is all around us.

Sculpture addresses our most innate creative desires to bring something tangible into being. Artists throughout the ages have explored new methods and means of expression, be it ancient religious icons, the figuration and abstraction of modern western art or the limitless possibilities explored in contemporary art. Our way of understanding the past is frequently through sculpture, the oldest clues to mankind’s early existence is a figurine from prehistoric times - an anthropomorphic lion-man carved from woolly mammoth ivory. Sculpture is a way of understanding our moment in time and leaving a legacy for future generations.

This year’s selection panel comprises of internationally-known sculptors Ann Christopher RA, Daphne Wright and Kate MccGwire, Artistic Director of New Art Centre at Roche Court Stephen Feeke and RWA Academicians Ian Middleton, Simon Hitchens and Dallas Collins.