Cosmos: The Art of Observing Space: The RWA

Happy New Year! And I hope you're ready for an exciting year packed full of exhibitions and visits to them with this group.

We're kicking off the year with our first visit to the RWA in a long time, seeing 'Cosmos: The art of observing Space'. The show itself launches on 24th January and runs until 19th April, and includes a wealth of incredible big-name artists including Wolfgang Tillmans and Yinka Shonibare.

Remember though, for this show there'll be an entry charge on the day of £11, unless you're an RWA member, can get a concession or have a National Art Pass (50% off tickets). Tickets can be bought on the day onsite.

About the exhibition
Cosmos: The art of observing Space is a major art and science exhibition celebrating our enduring fascination with space. Bringing together contemporary and historic artists, the exhibition features an extraordinary range of work inspired by the cosmos.

Discover breathtaking pieces by leading names such as Yinka Shonibare CBE RA, Christopher Le Brun PPRA Hon. RWA, Cornelia Parker RA OBE CBE, Wolfgang Tillmans, and RWA Academicians, alongside emerging voices exploring the mysteries of the universe through paint, sculpture, installation and digital media.

Complementing these contemporary works are rare and remarkable artefacts from the archives of the partner institution, the Royal Astronomical Society, and from national collections. From historical moon drawings and star maps to beautifully crafted celestial globes, these objects offer a glimpse into how artists and scientists have long turned to the skies in search of meaning, beauty, and understanding. Curated by visual artist, Ione Parkin RWA, Cosmos: The art of observing Space invites visitors to experience the awe, wonder and imagination sparked by space exploration—past, present and future.

*Please note: It now costs £300 a year for organisers like me to run MeetUp groups, so while this group is free to attend, please consider giving a donation to support the group's running if you enjoy these events/enjoyed this event. Thank you, Dominic
Support the group here

Event details:
12-1pm: We'll meet at The RWA cafe. You're welcome to explore the lower floor galleries in this time. This is also your time to purchase a ticket.

1pm: We'll head upstairs to the exhibition space and spend just over an hour inside. If you want to finish early, simply go to the cafe downstairs and wait for us to finish.

2:15pm: We'll gather at the entrance and head over to The Den & Terrace, or Racks (next door, depending on how busy each are) nearby to have a drink and a chat about the exhibition.

Before the event:
You'll receive a MeetUp message ahead of the event letting you know on any updates to the event, so make sure you check this before coming along.

What to bring:
A notebook if you want to write down your thoughts.

Preparation:
Extra marks for anyone who does some research on the exhibition.

Etiquette:
As always, if you can't make it just send a message to let me know and take your name off the RSVP list.

Cost:
The meetup is free to attend, and the exhibition is free too, but please do consider supporting the running costs of this group, which are over £300 a year, by donating on the PayPal link here:
Support the group here

Health & Safety:
If you are feeling unwell, please do not attend the event (just send me a message if you could).

See you there!
Dom

(If you need to contact me if you're going to be late or can't find us, please use the MeetUps messenger app or message me on 07889789965).