Summer reading: Capturing the Light by Roger Watson and Helen Rappaport

The Royal Academy has held its Summer Exhibition since 1769. Owing to the open nature of the exhibitions, it’s generally regarded as a snapshot of art of the time as well as being a chance to see the avant-garde of the art world. Certainly, the exhibition has a substantial number of new and young artists displaying their work. In its seminal year, 136 different pieces were on show. These days, the number is closer to 1,000. The artworks submitted are reviewed by the Royal Academicians who whittle down the entries to the final exhibition. For example, this year, the Black and White room has been curated by English sculptor Cornelia…