Art Collection

The Royal Air Force Club is justly proud of its Art collection. For members and their guests, our extensive display of original aviation paintings reflects a Club that lives and breathes the history of the Royal Air Force.  

A Unique History

Paintings, however, are but one of the art forms that impart the Club's unique atmosphere. Our extensive collection of original Squadron Badges is unrivalled, and gives the first floor corridor a special visual and historical ambience. 

Stained Glass Artistry

One of the most arresting works for dramatic impact and artistic quality is the Club's original stained glass window installed on the rear staircase in 2009; a window whose colour and innovative techniques so well reflect the qualities of the Royal Air Force. Designed by artist Helen Whittaker, its design symbolises both a Service and a Club that are rooted in their history but moving ever onwards and upwards.

A Celebration of Women in the Service of The RAF

In 2017, the Club once again turned to stained glass window artist Helen to bring a further two windows to fruition. The genesis of these windows dates back a decade or so when two Trustees, Arts Committee Chairman Wg Cdr Michael Gilbert and Gp Capt Tony Banks proposed the idea of creating a window to commemorate “women in the service of the Royal Air Force”. This spectacular window has now transformed a previously underused space into one of the centenary year's most visual highlights. On October 17th 2018, Her Majesty The Queen formally unveiled the two windows.

For many, a painting can vividly recapture memories of their own time in the Service. Conscious of this, the Club always seeks to fill any gaps in its collection. Original artworks and artefacts for donation are always considered, please contact matthew@rafclub.org.uk should you wish to discuss in further detail.