World Art Day is celebrated each year on April 15th. Here are eight easy ways to celebrate art and the artist within all of us.
April 15th is World Art Day, where artists around the globe are celebrated for their unique contributions to culture and global conversations. The holiday celebrates the Fine Arts: painting, sculpture, music, architecture, and poetry, but has grown to include historic artistic expressions like dance and dramatic arts. This year, we encourage you to go out and find new ways to celebrate art and maybe tap into your own creative interests. If you’re looking for inspiration, here are eight easy ways to celebrate the artist in all of us.
History of World Art Day
World Art Day was first proposed by the International Association of Art (IAA) and has been celebrated annually since 2012. The celebration date of April 15th corresponds with the birthday of Italian inventor and artist, Leonardo da Vinci. In 2019, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) officially recognized it as a global holiday.
Ways to Celebrate
1. Create Art at Home
What better way to celebrate World Art Day than by tapping into your inner artist? Whether you’re a polished painter or a novice knitter, there are plenty of ways to create art at home. To keep it simple (and affordable), all you need is paper and a pencil to spend a few hours sketching. If you’re looking to start a hobby, invest in supplies for your medium of choice, whether it’s watercolor paints, air-dry clay, or tools for sewing.
2. Attend an Art Class
Most cities, big or small, offer arts programs. Check out your local arts center or community learning center and sign up for an art class on April 15th. Remember: art isn’t just visual, you can sign up for a drama class, take a lesson for a new instrument, or attend a writing workshop. It’s all part of the celebration!
3. Go on an Art Hunt
Art is everywhere. This World Art Day, embark on a trip around town to hunt for art installations or impromptu art you find along the way. Look out for murals, graffiti, and street musicians. Make it a fun game for the whole family by encouraging your kids to spot art in unexpected places.
4. Finish that DIY Project
If you’re a DIY-er, chances are you have a project you’ve been putting off. World Art Day is a fantastic excuse to knock out a project in the name of creativity. You can upcycle an old piece of furniture in need of some TLC or simply touch up the trim around the house. Art looks different for everyone, and that’s what makes it special.
5. Visit a Gallery or Museum
Perhaps the easiest place to find a plethora of art is at your local art museum. If you live in a larger city, chances are you have access to some well-renowned artists. Even smaller galleries can house rotating exhibits and often feature works from local artists, too.
6. Contribute to a Community Project
World Art Day is a perfect day to give back to your community in a way that is creative and personal. Many cities offer opportunities for residents to participate in art installations, such as murals or greenery projects.
7. Enjoy Work by Your Favorite Artist
If you’re pressed for time or resources, a simple way to enjoy the day is to appreciate work by your favorite artist. Since World Art Day includes all of the fine arts, this can look like watching a movie with your favorite actor, listening to music by your favorite singer or musician, or just looking up art by your favorite artist. The premise is simple, and the possibilities are endless.
8. Participate in Cultural Art Appreciation
Art is boundless. It transcends cultures and countries in a universal language. This World Art Day, go out of your way to appreciate art and culture from another country or support diverse artists in your community. You’re sure to discover something special.
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Carley Bishop
Carley is an editorial lifestyle writer and aspiring novelist. She is based in North Carolina where she resides with her husband and their puppy, Daisy, and is a proud graduate of University of South Carolina. Carley is a lifelong bookworm who enjoys reading everything from the classics to modern romances. When she's not reading or writing, she enjoys traveling, getting outside and trying new recipes at home.
