Royal Academy of Arts
The Royal Academy of Arts was founded by King George III in 1768. It has a unique position in being an independent, privately funded institution led by eminent artists and architects whose purpose is to be a clear, strong voice for art and artists. Its public programme promotes the creation, enjoyment and appreciation of the visual arts and architecture through exhibitions, education and debate. The Royal Academy of Arts is housed in one of the grandest 17th Mansions in central London which spans Piccadilly to Bond Street in Mayfair. For its 250th Anniversary year in 2018, the RA opens an extended campus with state of the art teaching facilities and dedicated educational spaces including a 250-seat lecture theatre, the Clore Learning Studios and the Wolfson British Academy Room which is specially designed for executive education. The RA is at the heart of a vibrant cultural quarter, rich with world-class commercial galleries and private dealerships, as well as leading luxury brands and international craft-based goods and within a short walk of many of London's top landmarks and public museums.