History of the Academy
The South West Academy of Fine and Applied Arts (SWAc) is a prominent regional arts organisation in the UK, dedicated to promoting both fine and applied arts. Based in the South West it operates as a registered charity and is run largely by its artist members, known as Academicians. Its mission centres on advancing public appreciation of art while supporting practicing artists across a wide range of disciplines, including painting, sculpture, design, and craft.
The Academy was formed at the beginning of the 21st century, with its origins dating specifically to the year 2000 and its inaugural exhibition in Exeter. Its creation was driven by the vision of Brian Bearne, an auctioneer and passionate supporter of the arts. Bearne believed there was a need for a new organisation in the South West that would unite fine and applied arts at a high standard, giving equal recognition to both fields. This idea attracted a small group of like- minded artists, including Alan Cotton, Anne Arnold, and others, who came together to establish the foundations of the Academy.
The founding group worked collaboratively to develop the structure and purpose of the organisation. Alan Cotton played a particularly important role, becoming the first Chair of the Steering Committee while a constitution and trust deed were being prepared. Their shared goal was to create a sustainable institution that would exhibit members’ work and foster public engagement with art. This aim was formalised in the Academy’s objectives, which emphasise education, appreciation, and practice of the fine and applied arts.
From top left, Lionel Aggett, Alan Cotton, Peter Blake, John Hammond, Colin Allbrook, Michael Morgan, Mary Fedden, Zbigniew Drecki, Bob Mountjoy.
The Academy fast gained recognition for its exhibitions which attracted artists not only from the South West but from across the UK and Europe. Its Open Exhibitions became a central feature of its activities, providing opportunities for both established and emerging artists to display their work.The Academy also introduced awards, including those aimed at supporting young artists, reflecting its commitment to nurturing future talent.
The Academy operates with a governing body of trustees and a membership structure that includes elected academicians and honorary members. It also benefits from the support of sponsors and a network known as the ‘Friends of the Academy’.
In addition to exhibitions the Academy contributes to cultural life through lectures, educational programmes, and outreach initiatives. Events such as the annual Drecki Lecture and youth-focused exhibitions demonstrate its broader commitment to education and public engagement.
Overall, the South West Academy of Fine and Applied Arts was formed from a clear vision to bridge the gap between fine and applied arts and to create a vibrant artistic community in the region. Its continued success reflects the strength of its founding principles and the dedication of its members to promoting artistic excellence.
Open Exhibition in St. Stephen’s Church, Exeter, 2014
The founding of the South West Academy of Fine and Applied Arts was essentially the vision of one man - the late Brian Bearne. A long time supporter and patron of the Arts, he had a deep love of painting, the crafts, music and theatre.
I first got to know Brian when staging an auction to raise funds for the development of the Exeter and Devon Arts Centre - now the Exeter Phoenix. Brian joined the Planning Committee and his energy and enthusiasm for this project, and the subsequent craft auction he promoted, was awesome.
The idea he had nurtured of setting up a unique academy, where the Fine Arts of painting and sculpture and the Applied Arts were brought together and exhibited with equal status, was fuelled by these two events. As I worked closely with him and our friendship developed, I realised how selflessly and generously he gave of his time to bring these projects to fruition. The Steering Committee of the Academy that supported him was made up of many like- minded people, who also had a passionate concern for the Arts. It is they who have brought the Academy into being.
As a man Brian was a charismatic figure of great warmth and charm much loved by his large circle of friends. The present exhibition, the first of a number of events the Academy is promoting, is a fitting tribute to him.
Alan Cotton - a tribute to Brian Bearne from the first Open Exhibition.