It was originally based in the building on Mosley Street which is now Manchester Art Gallery where annual exhibitions and classes were held.
The academy holds member exhibitions, talks and workshops at venues across Greater Manchester and North West England.
[1] There is currently an elected membership (full and associate members) of over one hundred artists working in a variety of disciplines including painting, printmaking, drawing, sculpture and ceramics.
Members have played a significant role in the Manchester art scene for over a century, including the design of several of its buildings and public works.
A link with Manchester Metropolitan University has existed since the academy's foundation: past and present members have taught and studied there.