Presidents of the Royal Academy

Sir Joshua Reynolds was elected the Royal Academy of Art's first president in its founding year in 1768. His presidency was critical in establishing many of the characteristics that would define this artist led organisation. In its pursuit to raise the status of the artist and foster a national school of art, alongside its exhibitions and classes, Reynolds also delivered his Discourses on Art, the nation's first series of lectures given on the subject of art. Whether they are architects, painters or sculptors, all presidents are practicing artists themselves and have included the Anglo-American painter Benjamin West and architect Sir Nicholas Grimshaw. Today, presidents are elected by their fellow 80 academicians. To be considered for the position, they must be younger than 75 and once elected, cannot be in office for more than 10 consecutive years. Although they can summon the Council and General Assemblies, they are encouraged to be impartial and can only vote on matters if the votes on decisions are tied.