RA Collection: People and Organisations
Founded in 1754 by William Shipley. The founding aim of the society was "to embolden enterprise, enlarge science, refine arts, improve our manufactures and extend our commerce". Members of the Society are called Fellows and are from a diverse background, but share a commitment to civic innovation and social progress.
The aims of the Society are promoted through the award of premiums. Notable contributions to society have been achieved through the successful conclusion of various premium competitions. The Society has also sought to improve civic culture through exhibitions and was host to the first public art exhibition in the United Kingdom in 1760. In more recent decades the Society has focused on organised campaigns as a means of promoting its civic agenda.
More information is available from the official web site, www.rsa.org
Royal Society of Arts (London)
Catalogue of specimens of recent British manufactures received in competition for the society’s special prize. Session 1849-50. Opened on the 20th of March 1850. - London: 1850
19/3178
Royal Society of Arts (London)
A catalogue of works of antient and mediaeval art, exhibited at the house of the Society of Arts, London, 1850 - London: [1850]
19/3177
Royal Society of Arts (London)
A catalogue of the pictures and studies of William Etty, R.A. selected for exhibition at the Society of Arts, Adelphi, London: in aid of the formation of a National Gallery of British Art. - London: 1849
19/3175
Royal Society of Arts (London)
A catalogue of specimens of recent British manufactures and decorative art, exhibited at the house of the Society of Arts, 19, John Street, Adelphi, London - London: [1849]
19/3174