Every year, as part of our Secret Postcard Auction, artists from Bristol, the South West and across the UK create and donate original artworks - each no larger than a postcard - to raise vital funds for the Royal West of England Academy (RWA). 

Each postcard is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. Some are by internationally acclaimed artists such as Sir Anish Kapoor, Maggie Hamblin, Sir Quentin Blake and Sir Richard Long. Others come from much-loved Bristol favourites like Andy Council, Stewy, Peter Lord, and many of our RWA Academicians and artists who shape the creative life of our city such as Jemma Gunning RWA; Nancy Chambers, Hamish Young, STEWY and Andy Council. 

Every artist has generously given their work to support the RWA’s mission. They believe, as we do, that art has the power to transform lives. 

Why Support the RWA? 

“I feel really grateful to have had this opportunity to challenge stereotypes and be fully present as a whole person who can have many forms of expression.” Participant, Learning and Engagement programme

At the RWA, we are committed to fostering a lifelong journey with art - for everyone. We know that journey will be different for individuals. 

For some, that journey leads to a professional career in the arts or creative industries. For others, it becomes a lifelong passion, a source of confidence, wellbeing and joy. 

However people take that journey, we believe that everyone must have the opportunity to start, and nurture their pathway, on their own terms.  A world where more people are engaged with and connected to the arts is a world transformed. 

Through our acclaimed exhibitions, inspiring events, and wide-reaching learning and engagement programmes, we make the power of creativity accessible to all. 

Connecting Threads 2025. Credit Alastair Brookes /KoLAB Studios

Championing Artistic Excellence.

Excellence is at the heart of all we do. Our RWA Academicians – artists elected by their peers for their outstanding contributions – help lead the organisation alongside our Trustees and Executive Team. Together, we present world-class exhibitions that challenge perceptions and celebrate heritage.

Highlights this year included Windrush: Portraits of a Pioneering Generation, Valda Jackson’s Miss Polly, Paule Vézelay: Living Lines  (that received critical acclaim and a 4* Guardian review), and Soft Power, a landmark exhibition of contemporary textiles.   

Creating Opportunities for future artists.

Creativity builds confidence, wellbeing, and critical thinking. Through community outreach sessions and school partnerships, thousands of children and families across Bristol have discovered the joy of making art. 

We are proud to make art accessible for everyone. Our Happy Mondays sessions for children from specialist schools, Happy Families programme for families with disabled young people, and artist-led projects for autistic students ensure that everyone can take part in meaningful creative experiences. 

Supporting Artists, Developing Creative Careers 

We help artists grow, connect, and sustain their practice. This year, we delivered practical and professional skills  development sessions, returned income to artists through artwork sales, and offered paid internships and work experience opportunities - helping young creatives build confidence, skills, and a sense of belonging in the arts. 

Offsite creative workshops 2024. Credit Lisa Whiting

Art for Wellbeing 

Through partnerships with organisations like Mothers 4 Mothers and Bristol After-Stroke, and working with people living with Dementia and their carers, we use creativity to support wellbeing and connection. We’ve seen moments of real joy and achievement – from a mother rediscovering confidence through painting, to a stroke survivor cutting paper for the first time in three years. 

Sustaining Our Heritage 

We care for one of Bristol’s most beautiful buildings and a unique collection of artwork celebrating three centuries of creativity. This year, we conserved a historic work by our founder Ellen Sharples, supported academic heritage research projects, and loaned artworks to care settings, workplaces and galleries – ensuring our collection continues to inspire. 

Be Part of the Journey 

We must raise over £1 million every year to continue our work, creating opportunities for everyone to have their own journey with art. 

Your bid isn’t just for a postcard. It’s a vote of confidence in creativity, community, and connection. 

Every postcard tells a story. Be part of ours.

Support the RWA today, and help foster lifelong journeys with art. 

www.secretpostcard.org.uk