RBA Rising Stars exhibit at the 2026 Annual Exhibition
/ Royal Society of British Artists
The Royal Society of British Artists supports young artists through an annual open call for their RBA Rome Scholarship, with the winning artist receiving a month-long residency at Sala Uno in Rome.
Around 40 long-listed UK-based artists, all under 35 years old, are given the opportunity to exhibit at the Rising Stars Exhibition, a celebration into the breadth and diversity of the UK emerging art scene.
From these artists, three are selected as finalists with one going on to win the prestigious Rome Scholarship. This year, all three finalists are exhibiting in the RBA Annual Exhibition 2026 at Mall Galleries.
Ken Nwadiogbu
Ken Nwadiogbu was the winner of the 2025 RBA Rome Scholarship, and has recently returned from his residency.
'I am a Nigerian-born London-based multidisciplinary artist working across painting, sculpture, installation, and interactive art. My practice draws from my lived experience and those of my friends to reflect on how we navigate everyday life, identity, and displacement.'
As part of the RBA Annual Exhibition 2026, Ken will be 'In Conversation' with Mall Galleries' Creative Director, Addi Aegisdottir. This is an opportunity to hear from Ken on his practice, advice for other artists, and his answers to questions from the audience. The event is free with admission, booking required: exhibitions@mallgalleries.com
Katie Kaur and TF Ashley
Runners up for the Rome Scholarship, Katie Kaur and TF Ashley, were also selected for the 2026 Annual Exhibition. Kaur exhibits an oil work titled A Place that Knows Shame, while Ashley exhibits a mixed-media work, Bonnard's Cat Explores Belleville (II).
In Conversation | Ken Nwadiogbu
On Saturday 28 February at 2pm, join RBA Rome Scholar, Ken Nwadiogbu, in conversation with the gallery’s Creative Director, Addi Aegisdottir.