World Art Day

World Art Day History

World Art Day is dedicated to promoting the development, diffusion, and enjoyment of art. This day facilitates a conscious recognition of the world's creative activities and contributes to the greater appreciation of humanities. Celebrating this day not only highlights the power of creativity and innovation but also aims at fostering dialogue and cooperation among artists and art enthusiasts worldwide. It strengthens cultural understanding, encourages freedom of expression, and supports artists' rights, signifying art's essential role in building peace and sustainable development.

The International Association of Art (IAA/AIAP), a UNESCO partner, initiated World Art Day, in honor of the birthday of Leonardo da Vinci, who exemplifies world-celebrated artists. For people in India, this day advocates the richness and diversity of their arts, comprising numerous fields such as painting, sculpture, crafts, literature, music, and dance. World Art Day emphasizes the importance of art in Indian culture, which has a history dating back thousands of years and is deeply rooted in traditional arts and crafts. It serves as a platform to highlight and celebrate India's unique contributions to the global art scene.

Across India, World Art Day is acknowledged with numerous activities and events that involve artists, art institutions, and art lovers. Art exhibitions, workshops, and cultural performances are commonly organized, offering platforms for artists to show their works and engage with the public. Furthermore, digital platforms and social media also play substantial roles; online galleries and virtual tours enable accessible and inclusive celebrations, acknowledging the digital era's impact on the art realm. World Art Day is observed on 15th April each year.

Facts about World Art Day

• According to Artsy, in 2023, the most expensive artwork sold at auction was Pablo Picasso’s Femme à la montre (Woman with Watch) which sold for $139.4 million at Sotheby’s New York
  According to PBS, the most expensive piece of art sold in 2022 was Andy Warhol’s painting titled Shot Sage Blue Marilyn. Selling for $195 million, it is an up close portrait of Marilyn Monroe.
• Leonardo da Vinci’s painting titled Salvator Mundi sold for $450 million in 2017, becoming the world’s most expensive art piece ever sold.
• The Mughal Empire (1526-1857) greatly influenced Indian art, introducing Persian elements and creating a distinct style known as Mughal art. This can be seen in miniature paintings and architecture of the period.
• The period of British Raj saw Western influence on Indian art. Some artists adopted European techniques, while others reacted against it and formed the Bengal School of Art, seeking to revive Indian artistic traditions.

In the News and Trending in India for World Art Day

Top things to do in India for World Art Day

• Visit The National Gallery of Modern Art: Located in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, the National Gallery of Modern Art showcases works of contemporary Indian artists as well as collections of various renowned international artists.
• Visit Jehangir Art Gallery: Located in Mumbai, the Jehangir Art Gallery is one of the most prestigious art venues in India. It showcases works of both established and emerging artists.