Since 1769, the Royal Academy of Arts has held its Summer Exhibition, the largest open submission exhibition in the world, which today features a vibrant, visual collection of art in all media from artists across the globe. This year, the committee of 12 academicians - led by Eileen Cooper OBE - reviewed 12,500 digital submissions, shortlisted 2,500 to see in person, and chose the final 1,500 sculptures, neons, paintings, prints, drawings, photographs, models, words and films for inclusion.
Imperial Palace, Tokyo, Robert Walker
It's a British institution, and the democratic selection process - anyone is welcome to submit work - provides a platform for young artists, ensures diversity and keeps things fresh every year. The themes of discovery and new talent means there's no hierarchy: a small black and white print from an unknown photographer sits alongside a colourful large-scale abstract by an up-and-coming artist, next to a more traditional oil landscape from an established painter. This is the fourth or fifth time I've attended and each year you discover some gems: here are my twelve favourites from the 2017 show.
The Royal Academy Summer Exhibition runs 13 June-20 August 2017
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Flame and Summer, Mali Morris RA
Afternoon Shade, Beatriz Elorza
To Belong Somewhere, David Remfry RA
Yellow Mimosa July 23 2015, Donald Sultan
Broken Terrain, Emma Stibbon RA
Pacific Coast Highway, George Condo
Red Sea, Barbara Rae RA
Hub 1, Bill Jacklin RA
The Tide That Laps Against The Shore, Gillian Ayres RA
Tate Shadow, Simon Lawson
Promenade, Charlie Billingham
