Folly
Royal West of England Academy
Artform: Combined arts
Event date: Tue, 23rd Jun 2026 to Sun, 30th Aug 2026
South West
- Exhibition
Thu, 11 Jun 2026 "> published -
Event Summary
An exhibition of RWA Academicians exploring the common theme of folly through their work.
Event Description
The tradition of folly building began in Britain's stately homes several hundred years ago. Wealthy individuals chose to demonstrate their prosperity by commissioning ornamental structures in their newly landscaped grounds, often taking the form of towers or mock ruins. Today, the wider built environment is filled with structures shaped by political, religious, or commercial ideologies. Many were once symbols of ambition and prestige but have since become redundant or obsolete. Can these be considered modern follies? The tradition of the folly also persists in another way - in the urge to undertake an idiosyncratic project for its own sake, flying in the face of logic and common sense or utility. Across a wide range of mediums, these themes serve as a common thread for contemporary artists to explore in this exhibition. Curated by Peter Burke RWA and featuring Peter Burke RWA, Judith Jones RWA, Jemma Gunning RWA RE and Karl Singporewala RWA RIBA. Free entry.
Event Overview
- Event Title: Folly
- Type: Exhibition
- Date: Tue, 23rd Jun 2026 to Sun, 30th Aug 2026
-
Location:
| view on Google MapsSouth West
Event: Folly
Event: Folly
Organisation: Royal West of England Academy
Postcode: BS8 1PX
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About Royal West of England Academy
Organisation Description
The RWA is Bristol's first art gallery. Our mission is to welcome, inspire and encourage people from all communities by showcasing world class art of the past and present, celebrating excellence, and giving opportunities to aspiring and emerging artists and curators. To nurture creativity for all, through our learning programme, community partnerships and Drawing School, and embed the wellbeing of people, place and planet in every aspect of everything we do.