LONDON, ENGLAND.- The Mall Galleries present The Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours’s annual exhibition– The Water Colour event. Make a note in your diary now – The Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours’ annual exhibition is being held at the Mall Galleries from Thursday 15th March – Thursday 5th April 2007. Always a must-see event in the London exhibition calendar, it is renowned for displaying the paintings of notable Members of the RI as well as work selected from many new painters working in the medium from around the country. The exhibition shows uses of the watercolour medium in its wider sense, from good examples of traditional paintings to more experimental works using soluble mediums, all making an exciting display, making it a key place to buy outstanding work by living artists.

The RI, was formed as the ‘New Society’ in 1831 by a group of artists who wanted to show paintings by non-members alongside their own. This still continues today. The ‘old’ society, now the Royal Watercolour Society, only display the work of members.

Over the years watercolour has been regarded by some as a ‘lesser medium’ but many renowned painters have produced excellent pictures. The prime work at the moment is the painting by Turner ‘The Blue Rigi’, which is the subject of a national appeal by Tate Britain to raise funds to retain the most expensive watercolour (six million pounds) in this country’s collection.

The RI exhibition will again feature a display of exciting pictures, essential viewing for the many who are interested in watercolours. Make a date from March 15th to April 5th to meet at the Mall Galleries.

Accepted artists will be considered for a number of awards for both members and non-members, including the Winsor and Newton Young artists Award for the best artist under 30 years of age, and the Worshipful Company of painters Stainers Stokes-Robers Brursary Award for young painters.

During the second week, Ronald Maddox will lead the President’s Tour and will review the pictures on display (March 21st at both 11am and 2.30pm). The tour will be free with entry to the exhibition (£2.50 or £1.50 concessions) and promises to give fresh insights into the exhibition. The ever-popular art event evening will be held on Wednesday 28th March, from 6pm until 8.30pm. Visitors will have the chance to talk with members and watch them demonstrate their techniques. Admission will be £6 (payable on the door) or £4 for concessions (including friends).