Spring Gardens in London was the host for a landmark event in the art world, the inaugural exhibition organized by the Society of Artists of Great Britain. Formed in 1760, the Society sought to elevate the status of visual arts in Britain, which had previously been overshadowed by European art centers like Paris and Rome. The exhibition featured over 200 works, including oil paintings, drawings, and sculptures, demonstrating the diverse talents of British artists of the time. Among the exhibitors were prominent artists such as Thomas Gainsborough and Joshua Reynolds, who would later become influential figures in British art. Artists showcased various genres, including portraiture, which was particularly popular among the British elite. Key works displayed included landscapes that emphasized the natural beauty of the English countryside and historical paintings depicting significant events and figures from British history.

The choice of Spring Gardens as the venue was strategic, as it was a popular location frequented by members of the upper class and those interested in cultural pursuits. The success of the exhibition reflected a growing interest in the visual arts among the British public, and the Society aimed to create a tradition of annual exhibitions. The event was not merely a display of art but also a means to advocate for the recognition and appreciation of artists in society, fostering a sense of national pride in British artistic accomplishments.