About International Artist Day

October 25th is International Artists Day and it's gaining support worldwide. This grassroots movement is not mainstream as yet but artists and galleries in communities everywhere are jumping on the bandwagon. Perhaps an overview is needed to explain the concept.

Artists are a much ignored group although almost anything you use day to day has an artistic design at its root. Throughout history art has been the most important defining characterization of a culture or people. Art survives personalities, dynasties, movements and civilizations. Artists are pioneers and are usually at the forefront of changing times and events.

True art is timeless and universal and recognizable to all. Where does the inspiration for art come from? What makes some art priceless and other art mediocre? Actually , the artist themselves are the lynch pins. Art that is inspired comes from a "formless and unexplainable dimension" and is translated by the artist. They are natural conduits and are household names because of the recognition of their contribution to culture and humanity.

The day chosen to honor artists worldwide is October 25th, Picassos' birthday. Why this artist and not another was more a matter recent contribution. Picasso was instrumental in bringing art to the masses more than any other artist up to that time. He is the iconic artist personified. Now more than ever it is important to focus on art and culture. Mainstream television, globalization and the internet are wiring everyone up to the lowest common denominator. By giving our attention to artists, we have the opportunity for one day to focus on what is eternal and timeless in our civilization. Oct. 25th annually can give us a reason to participate in the arts personally.


Here are some suggestions for events, on International Artist Day:


• Have the Mayor of your city proclaim this day, October 25th, as I A D every year. The mayor has the right to make proclamations & therefore a council vote is not needed.
• For a visual exposure, have your local media film an interview and do an article about the Artist(s) in your area.
• Have businesses sponsor an Artist by purchasing a painting for their lobby, or hosting a show.
• Treat your favourite Artist to lunch or dinner.
• With so much up and coming new talent out there, why not help sponsor an emerging artist, through a weekend workshop or fundraiser.
• Advertise IAD by downloading our logo and using it to print posters or invitations for events.
• As a gallery owner, host an Open House with as many of your represented Artists in attendance.
• As an individual art lover, throw a house party featuring your Artist friend(s) and their artwork, of course!
• Host an "Art Auction" in a restaurant with a guest speaker to talk about art appreciation, art history (briefly) and the importance art plays in our society. Charge per plate. This money can be used to help sponsor new talent in the schools.
• Send I A D greeting/post cards to all your supporters to show your appreciation and thank them for honouring Artists and supporting the arts.
• If you have any type of website, add the I A D link and feature a different artist of the month, every month with a short biography.
• Most of us drive so why not have some magnetic decals or bumper stickers made to promote I A D to display on your vehicle.
This would help the awareness to expand.

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