144th Royal Ulster Academy Exhibition

Now in its 144th year, the Royal Ulster Academy’s Annual Exhibition presents over 300 works spanning painting, sculpture, ceramics, print, and textile.

Experience the RUA Exhibition 2025 at the Ulster Museum, running from mid-October to early January with free admission.

Proudly sponsored by KPMG, this prestigious showcase features artists including Andrew Cranston, Donovan Wylie, John Rainey, and notable RUA members such as Jennifer Trouton, Catherine McWilliams and Colin Watson.

A special collaboration with Craft NI features a curated selection of exceptional crafted works, highlighting Northern Ireland’s designer makers. Engage with innovative creations through curated talks, artist-led workshops, and opportunities to meet and chat with artists, supported by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and the Community Foundation Northern Ireland  through the Kingsbridge Foundation, which funds the education programme.

New awards, such as the £2,000 Leonora Millar Award and a Hillsborough Castle invitation, join prestigious prizes like the KPMG Young Artist Award, celebrating excellence across disciplines.

Set in the Ulster Museum’s vibrant galleries, the exhibition fosters creativity and community. Visit royalulsteracademy.org to learn more.

This year, a striking painting promoting the exhibition will be displayed in the arrivals hall of Belfast City Airport, welcoming visitors to this celebration of art.

Image Credit

John Rainey, Oculus Venus (Edition 2/3), 2023, Marble (Venato Orto di Donna, Grigio Vagli and Nero Marquina), 63 x 33 x 33 cm. Photography: Jan McCullough