Starting a Collection

‘Bringing home a new picture is always a fresh adventure. The thrill of working out where a new purchase will hang never fails.’
Nick Dummett, RWS Patron  

Building a collection of paintings is a creative activity. If you are new to the pleasures of buying paintings and don’t know where to start, the regular RWS exhibitions are an excellent place to begin your journey. Our exhibitions and programme of evening talks are a great opportunity to get to know the artists and their work, and develop a confidence in your own taste. You can be assured that the works you are buying are by recognised artists of repute. The RWS Archive holds records of all Royal Watercolour Society artists, providing lasting provenance for your purchases.

Wendy Jacob VPRWS offers her advice on collecting in An Introduction to Collecting, available to download opposite.

How to Buy

You can buy framed work in person at one of our regular exhibitions at Bankside Gallery; see the Exhibitions page for upcoming shows. A selection of works from each exhibition can also be viewed on the Current Exhibition page, and can be purchased by telephoning Bankside Gallery on 020 7928 7521.

A selection of unframed watercolours by RWS artists are available to purchase all year round at Bankside Gallery. Mounted and ready to take away immediately, they are perfect if you are travelling, or if you prefer to choose your own frame.

No room on your walls? Why not start an unframed collection, housed in a special museum quality RWS Archive box. For further details on starting an unframed, and the RWS Archive boxes, please download the PDF An Introduction to Collecting opposite.

A Unique Gift

A painting can make a wonderful gift for a loved one, but if you’re not confident in choosing on their behalf Gift Vouchers are available from Bankside Gallery, redeemable on all RWS works. Please call the Gallery on 020 7928 7521 to purchase.