The RSA MacRobert Art Award for Painting (£20,000) provides a research opportunity for a fine art painter. The aim of the award is to provide the chance for a committed painter whose circumstances have, for whatever reason, made it difficult to focus upon and develop their artistic talent. Whilst the award is financial, the real reward is the opportunity that the funds can directly, or indirectly provide/allow.

The award is funded by the MacRobert Trust and administered by the Royal Scottish Academy and consists of:
- A monetary award to fund a period of research and development for a new body of work within a 12-month period.
- Exhibition of selected completed work, along with other RSA winners, at the Royal Scottish Academy in the following year.

Sir Alexander MacRobert (1854-1922) and Lady MacRobert (1884-1954) married in 1911 and lived on the Douneside Estate in Aberdeenshire. After the death of her husband and three sons, Lady MacRobert continued to run the estate and immersed herself pursuing her own interests and supporting those of her family. These interests covered a broad range of subjects including supporting military life, farming and agriculture, gardening and horticulture, geology, art, music and her local community.

Prior to her death in 1954, Lady MacRobert established a series of charitable trusts that reflected her keen wish to continue to support those interests after she had gone and particularly to present young people with opportunities to better themselves as well as to support and nurture their belief in the traditions, ideals and spirit.

Find out more about The MacRobert Trust.

Banner image: Samantha Clark, Immerse, 2022, acrylic, gouache and aluminium leaf on aluminium panel