Cosmos: the art of observing Space

Cosmos: the art of observing Space

24 January - 19 April 2026

Venue

RWA, Queen's Road, Bristol

Date

24 January - 19 April 2026

THIS EXHIBITION HAS NOW CLOSED. PLEASE VIEW OUR CURRENT AND UPCOMING EXHIBITIONS. 


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, Sir Christopher Le Brun PPRA Hon. RWA, Cornelia Parker CBE OBE RA, Wolfgang Tillmans RA, 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.  

We offer Tours of the Exhibition every Tuesday Lunchtime at 12pm, complimentary with your Gallery Ticket. 

Purchase the exhibition catalogue here.

Exhibition Ticket Prices:

  • Annual Art Pass membership: £25 (unlimited access for a full year)
  • Adult day ticket: £11 (includes optional £1 donation, eligible for gift aid)
  • Concession* day ticket: £6 (includes optional £1 donation, eligible for gift aid)
  • Student entry (ID required): £2 (includes optional £1 donation, eligible for gift aid)
  • Free admission** for Friends of the RWA, RWA Art Pass Membership Holders, under 18s, refugees and people seeking asylum.

* Disabled people (required companion free); people on Universal Credit; Art Fund card holders 

** All RWA Members (Patrons, Friends, Academicians, Artists Network); all under 18s; required companion for disabled people; Museums Association, AIM or SWFed members). 

Lead Image credit: Susan Eyre, Sun Factor

In partnership with the Royal Astronomical Society

Join the Royal Astronomical Society for Cosmos: The Art of Observing Space Art and Science Symposium in London on Saturday, Feb 28, 2026! Click here for more information 

 

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