The principle aims of the Royal British Society of Sculptors have been variously interpreted over the years but there has always been a strong educational element in its activities, with respect to both professional standards and public knowledge/awareness. In recognition of this it was given charitable status in 1963. In this decade it was also generously bequeathed the premises it still occupies by the Dora Charitable Trust which was established by the late sculptor Cecil Thomas OBE FRBS.
The FIRST@108 Public Art Award is open to any artist working in 3 dimensions, and and provides a unique and rare opportunity for the winner to build a track record in the competitive arena of public art. The winner is awarded £10,000 towards the cost of producing a large scale site-specific sculpture or installation for the RBS forecourt. Over the following months the fabrication of the winning work is supported by the award and the winner is mentored by a team of experienced professionals Рengineers, consultants and artists Рto ensure the concept is delivered to the exacting standards required of work to be installed in public spaces.
