World Art Day
World Art Day, a celebration
to promote the development, diffusion and enjoyment of art, was proclaimed at
the 40th session of UNESCO’s General Conference in 2019.
Art nurtures
creativity, innovation and cultural diversity for all peoples across the globe
and plays an important role in sharing knowledge and encouraging curiosity and
dialogue. These are qualities that art has always had, and will always have if
we continue to support environments where artists and artistic freedom are
promoted and protected. In this way, furthering the development of art also
furthers our means to achieve a free and peaceful world.
Each year, on 15
April, World Art Day celebrations help reinforce the links between artistic
creations and society, encourage greater awareness of the diversity of artistic
expressions and highlight the contribution of artists to sustainable
development. It is also an occasion to shine a light on arts education in
schools, as culture can pave the way for inclusive and equitable education.
There is much to
learn, share and celebrate on World Art Day, and UNESCO encourages everyone to
join in through various activities such as debates, conferences, workshops,
cultural events and presentations or exhibitions.
This World Art Day
is a timely reminder that art can unite and connect us even in the most
difficult of circumstances. Indeed, the power of art to bring people together,
to inspire, heal and share, has become increasingly clear during recent
conflicts and crises, including COVID-19.