Royal Institute of Oil Painters | Annual Exhibition 2026
- - 10am to 5pm daily | North, East & West Galleries
Admission £7. Free for Friends of Mall Galleries and under 25s. Concessions available. No booking required.
The Royal Institute of Oil Painters presents the ROI Annual Exhibition 2026. The ROI is the only major national art society that is devoted exclusively to the art of oil painting and its annual exhibition platforms the continued, contemporary relevance of the medium.
Showcasing works by some of the finest oil painters working today alongside talented artists selected through an open call, the ROI Annual Exhibition offers an exciting opportunity to discover and buy contemporary oil paintings.
With a diversity of subjects and approaches, it presents a vibrant and rigorous survey of oil painting today.
ROI 2026 Exhibition Theme: Winter Rituals
This year’s optional theme, ‘Winter Rituals’, invites artists to explore the season’s rhythms and traditions in their own unique way.
Adebanji Alade, President of the ROI said: “This year, we have invited the best oil painters to explore the traditions, repeated actions and rhythms that shape our experience of winter – from personal routines and acts of devotion to cultural traditions and collective gatherings."
“There is something universally nostalgic, significant and heart-warming about the rituals we take part in during the winter months, and oil paint, with its voluptuous, generous qualities and vivid colours offers the ideal medium to bring these to life.”
Events Programme
The Royal Institute of Oil Painters presents a series of special events to accompany the ROI Annual Exhibition 2026. The programme includes a portfolio review day, guided exhibition tours led by Peter Graham and David Curtis, as well as painting demonstrations by ROI artists.
Winsor & Newton Young Artist Awards
The ROI takes a keen interest in the development of young artists, especially through the Winsor & Newton Young Artist Awards which has become an important feature of the annual exhibition.
About the ROI
The Royal Institute of Oil Painters was founded in 1882, promoting and exhibiting work of the highest standard in oil paint. Today, as then, it provides a centre of excellence and encouragement for oil painting.
The Institute was granted royal status by King Edward VII in 1909. Membership is limited to some 65 elected members and includes many of the leading painters in the country.
The ROI Annual Exhibition, held at Mall Galleries, allows for non-members to exhibit alongside established ROI members in central London.
Become a Friend
To receive free admission to the ROI exhibition for you and a guest, an invitation to the Private View, plus other benefits, join as a Friend of Mall Galleries.
