Explore our Impact 2024/25

The RWA is a charity. We are proud of the vital impact we have every day.  We know that Everyone’s journey with art is unique. It may become a profession, be a lifelong passion, or serve as a vital source of well-being and learning. Through our acclaimed exhibitions, inspiring events, classes and workshops, we open the door to starting that journey – and help it flourish.

In 2024/25 we welcomed 120,000 people to the RWA 

We subsidised 4,000 young people (aged 18 and under) to explore exhibitions with free entry 

Over 100 Volunteers collectively supported the RWA with over 3,000 hours 

Across our programme 1,000 artists exhibited work

We programmed over 25 engagement projects, creating accessible pathways to creativity for young people with SEN+D and adults with complex health needs.  

We hosted critically acclaimed exhibitions including a significant solo retrospective Miss Polly for the Bristol-based, British-Jamaican artist ValdaJackson MBE RWA as well as Paule Vézelay: Living Lines.

These Mad Hybrids, John Hoyland

Our Drawing School delivered 1,300+ hours of expert tuition, where participants have engaged with courses to develop wide ranging creative skills and practices including oil painting, print and life drawing.

“I didn’t know I could do this! Normally it’s just me in my seat on my own. But we’re all doing this together, aren’t we? It’s really good. It’s much better than being on my own...” Participant, Bristol After Stroke

Art Skills workshops explored the Windrush exhibition

We supported emerging professionals including a paid internship delivered in partnership with UWE and curational training for the University of Bristol.

We delivered learning experiences that engage people at any stage of their creativity journey. We work with education partners to offer specialist, adaptive creative provision for children and young people with complex SEN+D.

This year our partnership with Bristol After Stroke grew into regular creative activities at offsite locations across Bristol.

Dorcas Casey's performance at our After Hours

As custodians of a Grade II* Listed building we are committed to caring for and maintaining this important civic and cultural asset.

We house and conserve a unique permanent collection of art that celebrates regional and national creativity. This year we invested in the conservation of a historical work by our founder Ellen Sharples through our partnership with Bristol Museum and Art Gallery.

Our work ensures the RWA remains a vibrant place of inspiration for generations to come; rooted in history.

Explore our impact report in full here

Image credits: Martin Edwards,Olumide Osinoiki, Lisa Whiting, Jon Craig