Monday was Varnishing Day for the prestigious Royal Academy Summer Exhibition 2026 — a special occasion when all selected artists are invited to attend a service at St James's Church, Piccadilly before gathering at the Royal Academy for a celebratory glass of champagne and, most importantly, the first opportunity to see their work installed in the Royal Academy. Seven rooms in, I finally spotted my work mine - Summer Dive, (No. 1229), in the top right corner by the arch. Se