LONDON.-Since its first exhibition in 1946, the prestigious Royal Society of Marine Artists (RMSA) has represented and encouraged the very best in contemporary marine painting, drawing, sculpture and printmaking. The Society remains committed to continuing this long and distinguished tradition. The forthcoming October exhibition at London’s Mall Galleries (near Trafalgar Square) provides a fantastic opportunity to view and buy new works by leading contemporary marine artists and is evidence of the flourishing interest in marine affairs.

“This Society was founded when the national consciousness of the sea and maritime affairs was much greater than it is today,” says Society President Geoff Hunt. “Yet the sea is still there, elemental, beautiful and sometimes terrible, and it remains a fact that the overwhelming bulk of the world’s trade is carried by ships. The RSMA continues to celebrate our relationship with the sea in all its aspects."

The exhibition takes place from 17th to 28th October with over 300 pictures, including a special display showing work submitted for this year's new initiative, the Young Marine Artists Shipwrights' Prize for work by artists aged 16 - 25. The Mall Galleries have been entirely reconstructed during the summer and the RSMA show will benefit from this exciting new setting.

Work by today’s internationally renowned members will hang alongside the best work by up and coming talent selected from the large open submission. Traditions of plein-air, topographical, historical, still-life, portrait, and abstract painting are all welcomed in a variety of mediums ensuring a fascinating and varied exhibition. The theme is the sea and everything connected with it - harbours, coasts, beaches, ships, yachts, sailing craft, people and history. An exciting programme of events will run throughout the exhibition including demonstrations, talks and guided tours. Participation in these events is open to all visitors and is included in the exhibition admission fee of £2.50 (Concessions £1.50). For more information please contact the Mall Galleries on 020 7930 6844 or visit the websites at www.mallgalleries.org.uk.or www.rsma-web.co.uk.