The Society welcomes paintings, drawings and original prints - including digital/iPad prints - from artists aged 18 and over, from the UK and internationally. The final exhibition is selected by leading portrait painters and being selected is a mark of distinction. Selected artists will have their work exhibited in a prestigious showcase at Mall Galleries in central London, at which a number of works will sell and a number of commissions will be placed. There is also the chance to win a number of prizes and awards totalling over £40,000. "The Society’s Annual Open Exhibition is probably the largest and most significant celebration of contemporary portrait painting in Europe. The show is always selected by a jury of practising portrait painters, no critics, no journalists, no celebrities – just painters. The current annual prize fund is more than £40,000, including The William Lock Portrait Prize (£20,000) and The Ondaatje Prize for Portraiture (£10,000). If you make portraits, this is your opportunity to see your work alongside the very best." - Anthony Connolly, President. As a special feature of the show, works on the theme of 'Clothing' will be eligible for The RP Award: a prize of £2,000 for the most interesting and engaging interpretation of the theme within the parameters of portraiture.
