Find yourself a budding Tracey Emin or a future Grayson Perry at these free shows

Art lovers are spoilt for choice as young emerging artists, many of them just graduating from London's art schools, start exhibitions all around the capital.

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Olivia Williams

11 July 2012

1. Royal Academy Schools Show

The grande dame of summer art shows. Sixteen final year postgrads, who have been in intensive study for three years, get the chance to finally showcase their efforts at one of the most famous galleries in the world. The Schools were established in 1768 as an integral element of the Royal Academy and have a distinguished and worthy tradition of past students JMW Turner, William Blake and John Constable. That isn't to say that it's not fresh. The repertoire this year ranges from painting and photography to sculpture and film. Last year it was the turn of aspiring artists Tomas Downes, Blue Firth and Nicholas Hatfull. Go along to see who the creme de la creme of the Class of 2012 are.

The Royal Academy Schools Show is on from tomorrow until the July 1 at the Royal Academy, W1. Free.

2. Not The Royal Academy

This is the Battersea Dogs Home of art showcases. A loving home is needed for these artworks that have been submitted to the Royal Academy, but sadly rejected. Around 800 pieces are all for sale and all available to take away on the day. It gives artists a second chance at recognition, many of whom are worthwhile - just not quite 'Royal Academy'.

Not The Royal Academy is on now until August 18 at the Llewellyn Alexander Gallery, SE1. Free

3. Royal College of Art Graduate Summer Show: Show Battersea

A must-see for the art establishment every year, the very best work by these highly esteemed graduates is showcased; including everything from traditional fine art and textiles to animation. The RCA's previous graduates make up a who's who of contemporary art from David Hockney and Peter Blake to Bridget Riley and Jake Chapman.Much of the art on display will be for sale, so you can take home (a rather expensive) souvenir from the exhibition.

The RCA Graduate Summer Show: Battersea is on from tomorrow to July 1 2012 at the Royal College of Art, SW11. Free

4. The London Open

The Whitechapel Gallery prides itself on finding future art trends and innovative British artists, and this show will be no exception. Spot potential stars of the future among the 35 artists chosen by a panel of international curators and collectors. Previous exhibitors have included Bob & Roberta Smith, Rachel Whiteread and Grayson Perry early on in their celebrated careers.

The London Open is on from July 4 4th July - September 14 at the The Whitechapel Gallery, E1. Free.

5. Identity

Successful young models Tali Lennox, Harry Gilliam and Polly Brown seem to be more than just incredibly photogenic, they can hold their own in the art world too. A week-long showcase of their artwork investigates the issues of real versus perceived social identity; it's a chance to see what these sophisticated aesthetes think about matters of appearance.

Identity is on from June 28 - July 5 at Whisper, W1W.