The RGA is a diverse group of about 160 artists whose interests include painting, sculpture/3-D, drawing, printmaking, typography and lettering, ceramics, weaving, embroidery, stained glass, photography and digital work. It supports members' professional development, acts as an artists' network, provides opportunities for exhibition and sale of work, and organises a variety of activities that are open to all members of the community. There is a strong emphasis on the practical aspects of art practice, but also a contemplative strand which offers discussion and constructive criticism of members' work. There are lectures and visits which examine artists, movements, and recent developments.
The RGA was formed in 1930 to advance public education in visual arts by means of exhibitions, lectures, demonstrations, criticism and discussion. Its founders were the Professor of the Fine Art Department of the University of Reading and Curator of the Reading Museum. Membership is open to all, and new members are very welcome, from experienced professionals to complete beginners. New members usually join as Affiliates, then may upgrade to Exhibiting Member status according to experience and competence. Those with a degree in visual art and established artists may join at Exhibiting level. Exhibitions are selected. Exhibiting Members may submit work for all exhibitions.
Annual Exhibitions have been held each year except for 1939, and there are usually additional exhibitions every year. These are reported in the local press and on local radio or television. Locations have included The Museum of Reading, Henley Exhibition Centre, The Hexagon, Reading Central Library, The Royal Berkshire Hospital, The Jelly, The Museum of English Rural Life and the Castle Hill Gallery. There have been reciprocal exhibitions with artists in Dusseldorf, Reading's twin city. We are currently looking for locations for exhibiting a wider range of work, and welcome proposals from artists and from organisations which might offer exhibition space.
Members have contributed to various community projects including The Big Draw and recording the refurbishment of Reading Town Hall, and raising funds for The Mrs Williams' Pre-School. The summer painting days raise funds for a variety of charities. Sale of work from the Corridor Exhibitions in the Royal Berkshire Hospital helps raise money for the Hospital's Arts and Gardens Fund. Through its members there are links with other organisations such as:
arjeea21
The Museum of Reading
Hang-on
jelly
Whiteknights Studio Trail
Open Studios: West Berkshire and North Hampshire
Caversham Open Studios
ReOrsa
South Hill Park and ARC
Print at the Park
Openhand Openspace