The art of portraiture dates back at least 5,000 years to ancient Egypt and, up until the invention of photography, was the only way to capture a person’s likeness. Throughout history, portraits have been used as a tool for demonstrating the sitter’s status and importance, as well as to assert dominance over subjects and enemies. However, portraiture and, in particular, self-portraiture, is not always representational but instead may employ abstraction or symbolism to reveal more than just the physical appearance of the subject.
The RBSA Portrait Prize exhibition gives artists working in any medium the opportunity to exhibit their work and win prizes. This year, the RBSA was delighted to extend the scope of the exhibition to include photography and digital artwork.
This year’s exhibition was selected by:
The following prizes will be awarded:
Private View: Tuesday 7 May 6.00 – 8.00pm
Artists’ Talk: Saturday 18 May 2.00 – 3.00pm
Featured image: Stephen Carse, Hoarding Issues