World Art Day, 2023- Why Is It Important?

The time to celebrate art is finally here, even if it is every day. World Art Day, which is celebrated each year on the 15th of April is done so with the sole objective of promoting the development of the various artistic styles that exist in the world so that the population at large can enjoy them.

Art As An Expression Of Diversity

Throughout history, various cultures and civilisations have left their mark through art, whether they are paintings, pottery, dance forms, cinema, and so on. Even if a culture did not have a defined mythology or religious beliefs, a form of artistic expression was present. 

Art promotes creativity, the cornerstone of humanity, and cultural diversity. These are important for the sharing of knowledge and bring cultural curiosity to the forefront. All over the world, countries take part in cultural exchanges with each other as a form of diplomacy, either through loaning their artworks or sending some of their country’s most popular artists to give talks, organise events and performances, and many more.

One of the best examples of the importance of art was demonstrated by Japan in the years after the Second World War. To atone for its actions during the war and rebuild relations with the world through peace, it embarked upon a campaign to build Japanese-style gardens in cities around the world. While it did so, it allowed Japan to reinvent its image and promoted Japanese culture all over the world. 

Interesting fact- the date of 15th of April was chosen to honour the creator of the most popular, priceless, and widely-recognised piece of art in the world, the Mona Lisa, as it is Leonardo da Vinci’s birthday. 

Mumbai is a city that is widely known for its cultural scene that is just growing every year as more up and coming artists are able to showcase their works and generate interest among the masses. So why not spend a day celebrating the various art forms that are perpetually on display in Mumbai? Here are some of the best ways you can enjoy art on this World Art Day, courtesy of Things2do.

1Visit The Intriguing Project 88

One of the best parts about this sprawling 4000 square feet art gallery is that it was once a century old metal printing press! Surprising, right? This art gallery is dedicated to showcasing experimental and ambitious artwork by artists who have a strong understanding of the concept behind their creations. This gallery is known for displaying the works of popular artists and groups like the ‘Otolith Group’ which is known for creating art using films, installations, and performances exploring deeply-researched aspects of the histories of science fiction and transnationalism. It is a must visit gallery for those art lovers who like to explore a certain degree of sophistication in what they want.

Location- Ground Floor, BMP Building, Narayan A Sawant Rd, Azad Nagar, Colaba.

2Explore The Local Arts and Crafts

Now is your chance to visit the amazing Artisans’ Centre in Mumbai on this World Art Day. A gallery with a social purpose, its prime focus is to support India’s indigenous art, craft, and design to retain its rich heritage. It does so in a sustainable marketplace for the conscious consumer of today. To achieve this aim, the art gallery houses and promotes them all year long with a wide range of handpicked and handmade collectibles. From the Gond art of Madhya Pradesh, to the Japanese Shibori art, to the Bhil tribe’s Pithora painting, and Warli Art; there are literally tons of styles and artworks for you to engage with whenever you go!

Location- 52 – 56, VB Gandhi Marg, Kala Ghoda, Fort.

3Make It A Day Of Performances

When was the last time you witnessed a live artistic performance inside an actual theatre? Then it is now when you should visit the legendary Prithvi Theatre! In the era of movies and live concerts dominating the cultural landscape, take a moment to appreciate the OG mode of live performances. From new and intriguing stories, to the classic age-old tales, to various performances occurring throughout the day, it is sure to be the experience of a lifetime. Moreover, the delicious menu of Prithvi Cafe means that you are going to walk out of the place with an even bigger smile on your face 🙂

4A True Treat For The Eyes

Who said art just has to be a movie, or a sculpture, or a painting on the wall? Well, Volte is one such art gallery that combines the physical medium with delightful visuals for an immersive experience. Their goal is to create a cultural experience that challenges the traditionally defined boundaries of how Indian audiences consume art. It has a very eclectic mix of artists from India, as well as from other parts of the world. It is a trailblazer in the change that is coming to the art scene of Mumbai.

Location- Sumer Kendra, Pandurang Buhadkar Marg, Worli

5For The Street Art Lovers Out There

It is an artistic place housed inside one of the oldest docks in the city. Yes, you guessed it right, it is Sassoon Docks! Constructed in 1875, it has recently undergone an extensive renovation and revamp to become one of the most popular places for art lovers and artistic expression in Mumbai. It is now one of the best places to view street art in the city and artists frequently come and showcase their artistic talents on its various surfaces, most prominently under St+art Foundation’s India Project. Now a popular tourist attraction as well, it regularly hosts art festivals every year. 

How every person defines or considers art is obviously going to differ, right? Some look at it simply because it looks beautiful and they want to keep it in their homes while some like to explore the intricacies, history, and the true meaning behind the creation of a particular piece of art. And Mumbai is a place where every kind of art lover can enjoy themselves to the fullest. On that note, we at Things2do hope that this guide helps you find the best place to spend this World Art Day and possibly explore art forms that you don’t know much about yet but might be interested to explore further. Happy World Art Day to everyone!

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by Ritvik Agarwal

Content Writer at Things2do