DUBLIN, IRELAND.- The Royal Hibernian Academy presents its Annual Exhibition. The 177th RHA Annual Exhibition, where over half of the work is selected from open submission, provides an unparalleled opportunity to view Ireland's best-established and most promising future artists. A high point of Ireland's cultural calendar, this exhibition runs from May 22nd until June 30th. With last year's record-breaking sales the exhibition has proven to be a great opportunity for both first time and experienced buyers alike.

A prize-fund of over €65,000, awarded to a variety of disciplines from painting, sculpture and drawing to photography attracts a wide variety of both international and Irish artists. Invited artists this year include AIB Art Prize winner Diana Copperwhite, painters Nick Miller, Hughie O'Donoghue and John Devlin; photographer Liam Blake and artists Cathy Callan, Marie Foley, Ronnie Hughes and Stephen Loughman.

James Hanley RHA Secretary adds: "With prizes such as the Hennessey Craig Scholarship of €12,000 and the RHA Sculpture Award of €10,000, the RHA Annual Exhibition, continues the core remit of this artist-led organization to support Irish artists at every level of their careers."

New awards this year include The Abdul and Katharine Bulbulia Art in Health Award of € 1,500 and the Kilcock Art Gallery Award for a Watercolour of € 1,500, bringing the total number of awards to 20.

As ever the public can view new artworks by well known Academicians including celebrated Cork sculptor Michael Quane RHA, painters Peter Collis RHA, Mick O'Dea RHA, Carey Clarke PPRHA, Richard Gorman RHA, sculptor Imogen Stuart RHA and painter Barbara Warren RHA.

Admission is free and the exhibition is supported by a full colour catalogue costing € 20 available at reception.