Every year, on April 15, we celebrate World Art Day!

If you’re unfamiliar with World Art Day, here’s how it all began. In 2012, the International Association of Art (IAA) proposed dedicating a day to celebrating the contribution of artists and creative expression to the world we live in today. From culture to education, tourism, health, and wellness, art helps us find peace and joy regardless of who we are, where we come from, and what we want our lives to look like. 

Think of the last time you enjoyed a piece of art.

It could have been of your favorite songs, movies, or books. Perhaps you came across a mural recently or stopped by an art fair or local museum. Whether it was an artist with a name we all recognize or a talented individual you wished everyone knew more about, the artists that exist around us — and within us! — deserve to be celebrated for contributing to a more colorful, passionate, and honest world.  

Why April 15th? 

It’s because it’s the birth date of one of the most iconic artists of our time, Leonardo Da Vinci!

Beyond being the artist who created historical classics like the Mona Lisa and the Last Supper, Da Vinci was also an inventor and scientist with expertise in civil engineering, chemistry, mathematics, physics, and more. His profound understanding of art and design allowed him to create compelling visualizations of concepts we know very well today — like the parachute, car, and helicopter!

In fact, Da Vinci was one of the first people to help the world understand how art and science can be used to elevate each other. If there’s anyone that represented the impact of artistic expression across all layers of life, it would be Da Vinci! 

Art strengthens communities

This year, the theme of World Art Day is “A Garden of Expression: Cultivating Community Through Art.” 

Our understanding of communities has evolved greatly over the years, especially with the internet at our fingertips. It’s never been easier for us to be inspired by people far away from us, share our work, and create beautiful art with others. But if not careful, the internet can also pull us away from our communities by enticing us to seclude ourselves from those we love and hurting our confidence. 

As we learn to live alongside the world we see before us online, it’s never been a better time for us to use art to build a positive relationship with ourselves and with others.

We celebrated this theme in our Spring 2024 Tool Kit, “Community Roots: Growing and Blooming Together Through Art”!

The tool kit helps students participate in activities that promote togetherness in three places where youth form their understanding of community: At home, in the classroom, and their neighborhoods.

You can read more about what’s in our tool kit here! 

How can you celebrate World Art Day this year? 

Although World Art Day is just limited to a day, we encourage you to take this theme to heart and use it celebrate art with those around you this year! Here are a few things you can do with your family, friends and loved ones: 

1. Sign up for an art workshop: Art workshops and classes are a great way to learn a new creative skill or improve the skills you already have! Look for workshops hosted by your school, community center, neighborhood library, or even local shops in your city.
   
   
   📣 My Good Brain will also host a workshop at the Triton Museum in Santa Clara with artist Theresa Chung this summer! Children between the ages of 5 and 18 are welcome to sign up to engage in hands-on, creative activities that explore art as a tool for social-emotional learning. The event will be held on June 8, 2024— learn more about it and register here!
   
   

2. Work on DIY art projects: Carve out some time to create art with your family and friends at home! Getting started with things you already have laying around the house is easy. Check out these five at-home collaborative art activities that you can do to get the ball rolling.
   

3. Visit a local museum or art fair: Have you ever been to any art museums and galleries near your home or school? If not, this is your reminder to check them out! You can also visit local farmers markets or pop-ups — some local artists use these events to sell handmade trinkets, art works, and more!
   

4. Support your favorite artist online: Many artists use their digital platforms and social media accounts to sell their work and make a name for themselves! If you come across a local artist or small business you love, don’t forget to spread the word and send someone new their way. Reshare their artwork and better yet, share your story on how their art has left an impression on you. This is a great way to create genuine interest in your community and opens up opportunities to bond with others who share similar creative interests as yourself!