King Charles' Artistic Journeys: Rare Exhibition Showcases Decades of Royal Travel and Creativity
July 9, 2025
Artists share their experiences of capturing moments from tours, with some recounting challenges like being separated from the royal party or painting in unexpected circumstances, such as a cafe in Cairo.
Despite a mishap where a painting was trodden on at the Pyramids, the artist managed to sell a copy to King Charles, illustrating the collection's resilience.
Artists recount their experiences of painting during royal tours, describing the process as privileged yet chaotic, often under time pressure and in dynamic environments.
Notable artworks include a 2005 painting by Luke Allsbrook of the couple in California and portraits from the 2023 coronation tour by Peter Kuhfeld.
The exhibition at Buckingham Palace showcases a diverse collection of artworks personally commissioned by King Charles since 1985, featuring works from 43 artists who have accompanied him on 70 tours across 95 countries.
Curator Kate Heard describes the collection as reflecting the personal impressions of different countries, including landscapes, figure studies, and still life, emphasizing the King's long-standing support of artists.
This rare public viewing offers insight into the King's travels and his artistic patronage, with the collection including works created during tours to places like Kenya, Rwanda, Egypt, and Hong Kong.
The exhibition coincides with a state banquet hosted by the King for French President Emmanuel Macron at Windsor Castle.
Modern technology plays a role in the collection, with some artworks created on devices like iPads during recent tours, highlighting innovative approaches.
Buckingham Palace's summer opening, where the exhibition is displayed, attracted a record 605,000 visitors last year.
A companion book titled 'The Art Of Royal Travel: Journeys with The King' offers behind-the-scenes stories, artist recollections, and over 100 illustrations, celebrating four decades of royal travel and artistic patronage.
The artworks include pieces created by the King himself, emphasizing his personal interest in art and diplomacy, and providing insight into his global travels.
Summary based on 10 sources
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Sources

Evening Standard • Jul 9, 2025
Royal tour paintings from Charles’s personal collection go on display
Oxford Mail • Jul 9, 2025
Royal tour paintings from Charles’s personal collection go on display