Royal Academy opens up online with virtual exhibits and behind-the-scenes tours

Art enthusiasts can go online with the Royal Academy to learn about 250 years of summer exhibitions or the feud between Constable and Turner.

The gallery has teamed up with Google Arts & Culture to keep in touch with its visitors while the doors remain closed.

More than 30 exhibits and stories have been created to delve into the Royal Academy’s history, offering self-guided tours and virtual walks through the building’s galleries and hidden rooms with Google street view.

Artworks by the likes of Angelica Kauffman, Yinka Shonibare and Lubaina Himid are among more than 200 available to view at close quarters, while videos grant access to the RA's library and extensive collections.

Axel Rüger, chief executive of the RA said: “Especially in times of crisis, art galleries and museums should be places of community that provide inspiration, escape, solace, fun and consolation. The Royal Academy of Arts has existed to do that since 1768. At a time when our doors are sadly closed, we are delighted to continue that cultural exchange online, through Google Arts & Culture.”

Visit g.co/MeetTheRA to see the gallery online.