A vernissage (varnishing, from French), also known as a preview, private view or simply opening, is the start of an art exhibition. It is usually a social event that people attend to be seen, strolling around with glasses of free sparkling wine and canapés, talking to artists about the works in the exhibition. Critics and press may also be present, or invited to separate private viewings.At official exhibitions, such as the Royal Academy summer exhibition, artists, in the past, would give a fini