The RSA was established in 1826, and occupies William Henry Playfair’s magnificent landmark building on the Mound. It was created to offer learning and funding opportunities for emerging artists in Scotland, and to recognise and provide a home for great art that was already being created here. In time, the teaching duties were transferred to the Edinburgh College of Art, but the commitment to furthering young artists’ careers still lives on through a programme of scholarships, awards and exhibition opportunities. The RSA features Scottish artists, such as William MacTagggart, Robert Gibb and Elizabeth Blackadder, holds frequent talks, discussions and tours, as well as special events such as wine tastings, poetry readings and jazz performances.