Forthcoming

The Guild of Aviation Artists was established in 1971, and it is recognised throughout the world as the premier society for the promotion of aviation art. Its principal aim is to promote aviation art in all its forms, and to encourage interest in the genre by artists and non-artists alike.

Amongst the founder members of the Guild was the famous wildlife artist, David Shepherd, who was in fact an aviation artist before he became famous for his wildlife work. Other famous past members include the late artists Terence Cuneo, Keith Shackleton, Roy Cross, and Roy Huxley (the latter two being most renowned for their Airfix and Matchbox cover art).

The Guild’s current membership stands at around 260 in the UK, and the work of members, both past and present, is to be found in not only private collections around the world, but in many corporate and governmental locations. In particular, the majority of paintings to be found in the likes of the RAF Club and messes of airbases were most probably produced by Guild members.

Today, amongst the membership of the Guild, are to be found ex-service personnel who have rekindled their association with military aviation through their artwork.

This new exhibition, Defence of the Realm, will feature some 180 aviation paintings, the majority of which will follow, and portray, the defence of the realm theme.

The opening day of the exhibition, 15 September, will be Battle of Britain day itself. A VIP opening ceremony (by Invitation only) will be held at the RBSA Gallery Monday 14 September, when President of the Royal Air Force Association, Air Marshal Sir Baz North, will be attending as guest VIP to open the show.

The Guild has agreed to donate part of the commission on any sales at the exhibition to the Royal Air Force Association in recognition of those that have served –  and those who continue to do so.

Exhibition closes: Saturday 26 September 5.00pm

Image: Robert Calow, Spitfires (detail)