Royal Society of Marine Artists | Annual Exhibition 2023

The Royal Society of Marine Artists presents its 78th Annual Exhibition.

This is a showcase for the best in contemporary marine art, whether that is painting, drawing, printmaking, or sculpture, and as such the exhibition celebrates a diversity of approach as well as subject matter.

Here you will find almost photographic realism alongside the semi-abstract; the soft, muted tones of watercolour alongside the boldness of an oil painting. Here, too, you will find ocean-going vessels alongside dinghies and day-boats; busy commercial harbours alongside sandy beaches; what lies under the sea alongside the coasts that withstand the full force of the ocean. In short, something to appeal to everyone.

"The UK has long been Europe’s leader, and a constant inspiration, when it comes to the discipline of marine art. Being an island, the coast and sea is an integral part of our national identity. Artists have never been too far from it and many of us are drawn to the sea and to artwork depicting it. Since the Royal Society of Marine Artists’ inception in 1939, it has been focused on promoting the finest in figurative marine work. There is no other comparable society in the whole of Europe and, with its aim to bring together the year’s best tidal and coastal artwork, our Annual Exhibition attracts both artists and buyers from across the world." – John Scott Martin, RSMA President

View the Prize Winners

What to Expect:

• Over 300 works for sale, including paintings and sculptures 
• Workshops and demonstrations held by Society members to share their knowledge and techniques 
• A team of dedicated professionals to help and advise with your purchase if required​

About the RSMA

Founded in 1939 as the Society of Marine Artists, in 1966 Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II granted it the title Royal Society of Marine Artists. Early members included Charles Pears, Montague Dawson, Claude Muncaster, Norman Wilkinson, Rowland Hilder and Edward Wesson, all eminent artists in their day and whose work is held in major national collections. Many of the current members are equally eminent in their field and their work will be valued and appreciated for generations to come.