In 2020, for the first time in 252 years, the Royal Academy’s Summer Show was postponed and, along with it, Varnishing Day.

Varnishing Day is the day when Academicians with work in the Summer Show meet and celebrate, adding finishing touches to their work before the opening the next day. For Varnishing Day: a Moment in Time, 100 Academicians made a picture on Varnishing Day (1 June); an expression of their thoughts and feelings at this unprecedented time. It’s an artistic response to the Coronavirus Pandemic but most importantly, it’s an acknowledgement of the contribution made by the Friends of the Royal Academy of Arts. Moreover, it also serves well as a way of raising much needed funds for the Royal Academy."

Varnishing Day: a Moment in Time was published and produced by Hurtwood Press and manufactured by Pureprint and A-Box. The presentation box was covered in GF Smith Colorplan Marrs Green with a Dapple emboss and lined with GF Smith Colorplan Lavender (silkscreen printed + spot gloss UV varnish). All works were printed on Mohawk Superfine in the shade White Eggshell 216gsm. It was designed and art directed by Billie Temple.

Find out more about the project here, or click here to purchase the portfolio.