RA Varnishing Day Edition 2020: A Moment in Time

September 2020

For the first time in the Royal Academy’s 252-year history, Varnishing Day couldn’t happen this year due to Covid-19, and the Summer Exhibition was delayed. As a result, Niall and another 99 of his fellow Academicians created a piece of work on 1st June; the ‘RA Varnishing Day Edition 2020: a Moment in Time’, to support the RA and thank our Friends for their ongoing support.

Brought together in a beautifully designed portfolio by award-winning production house Hurtwood, this is a unique collection of never-seen-before work by some of the most illustrious artists from across the world. The portfolio represents the first time in history that the RA’s community of Royal Academicians have collaborated on one piece of work – a taking of the temperature of British art at a crucial time, documenting what our RAs were doing, thinking and making on 1 June.

All sales of the portfolio support the RA and help us ensure that we are here for you – and everyone – long into the future. You can purchase the Portfolio here https://shop.royalacademy.org.uk/varnishing-day-portfolio.

Competiton Win at King’s Cross

February 2013

‘Niall McLaughlin triumphs in King’s Cross canopy competition.’ Building Design

Niall McLaughlin Architects was announced as the winner of the Cubitt Square competition at King’s Cross. The practice was chosen from among a strong shortlist, including Amanda Levete Architects, Asif Khan, Duggan Morris, Carmody Groarke, Ian Ritchie and Jamie Fobert.

The competition brief was to create a canopy structure for the southern end of the square, to provide a covered space for public events. In response the practice’s intention was to create an object that will read beautifully against the dark brick of the train sheds, whilst echoing their inner structure. The canopy will be made from very slender rods of stainless steel that will form a fragile framework. The ephemeral nature of the structure will allow views between the the existing listed buildings and significant structures, such as the Triplet Gas Holders.