World Art Day

World Art Day History

World Art Day aims to foster appreciation of creativity in its various forms around the world. Artists, curators, galleries, enthusiasts, educators, and students engage in a broad array of activities to showcase and honor the invaluable contribution of artists - past and present, to the development of human culture and societies.

The concept of World Art Day was initiated by the International Association of Art (IAA), a partner of UNESCO, during the 2011 General Assembly in Guadalajara, Mexico. The United Kingdom, with its rich artistic heritage and vibrant contemporary art scene, has embraced this global event enthusiastically. From the timeless classics of Turner and Constable to the modern murals by Banksy, British art has always been a significant contributor to the international art scene. The observance of World Art Day encourages and facilitates the interaction and appreciation of this legacy, both within the UK and abroad.

In the United Kingdom, World Art Day is typically observed with a multitude of art-related events. These range from special exhibitions, artist-led workshops, panel discussions to public art installations and online activities, aiming to engage communities and inspire creativity. Schools across the country also partake by encouraging students to explore various artistic mediums. While World Art Day is celebrated on April 15th each year with events and activities that often take place throughout the month to highlight the significance and impact of art in the UK.

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.
• Artistic styles and movements that originated in the UK include the Pre-Raphaelite movement in the 19th century, the Vorticist movement in the early 20th century, and the Pop Art movement of the 1950s and 60s.
• British art education has been influential worldwide. The Royal Academy of Arts, established in 1768, was the first institution to provide professional training for artists in the country.

In the News and Trending in the UK for World Art Day

Top things to do in the UK for World Art Day

• Visit Tate Modern: Located in London, the Tate Modern is one of the most revered modern and contemporary art museums in the world. It offers a variety of collections and exhibits from around the globe and various eras, including works by Picasso, Warhol, Hockney and many more.
• Attend the London Art Week: This event is a collection of over 40 exhibitions showcasing exceptional works of art, from antiquity to the twenty-first century. London Art Week also often hosts talks and tours in conjunction with World Art Day.