American Artist Appreciation Month is celebrated across the U.S. throughout August. From Andy Warhol to Georgia O’Keeffe, America has been home to many extraordinary artists throughout history. American Artist Appreciation Month was started with the simple aim to celebrate artists and the incredible work that they do. Art is not just something beautiful to look at, it also reflects the human condition, emotions, and ambitions. Art portrays what we are trying to convey when words fail. Celebrate the month by discovering new American artists or revisiting the artworks that you love. You can even check out local museums and galleries to support local artists.
History of American Artist Appreciation Month
We don’t really know who or how American Artist Appreciation Month started but it is clear that, through August, we are encouraged to celebrate American artists and the incredible works that they have created. Creating a piece of art might be a solitary task, yet artwork is often consumed and appreciated by the masses. Looking at artwork in person is known to kindle feelings of awe, empathy, and appreciation for humanity.The United States has a long and rich artistic history. It stretches from the earliest indigenous cultures to the modern-day globalization of contemporary art. Long before European settlers arrived on the American shores, Native American peoples were already crafting ritual and utilitarian objects in the image of their natural environment and beliefs. After the arrival of the Europeans, artists imitated the European styles in portraiture and landscape painting to correctly represent the new landscape. However, it was not until the middle of the 19th century with the Hudson River School that American artists could launch a cohesive movement. Through the early 20th century, artists would still seek inspiration from European avant-garde groups but they shifted their focus to urban American centers and the more rural Midwest. After World War II, artists in America started the Abstract Expressionist movement, which brought them international fame for the first time. American artistic influence was finally being recognized abroad, and later Minimalism and Pop Art made great waves in the international art community. Over the years, America became home to important museums, art centers, and schools, and now with the influence of social media and digital platforms, the nation is seeing a rise in a more individualistic approach to art.
American Artist Appreciation Month timeline
American Classicism develops in the U.S. under the guidance of Richard Morris Hunt.
Artworks featuring organic, flowing, floral motifs become popular.
A style of massive architecture employing unfinished, precast concrete becomes popular.
Abstract photography begins with Alvin Langdon Coburn's Vortographs.
American Artist Appreciation Month FAQs
What is artistic appreciation?
Art appreciation is the knowledge and understanding that identify all great art. This means appreciating the art of different eras, movements, styles, and techniques.
Why is art important to us?
Art has existed as long as man has. It is a huge part of our culture, which shapes our ideas, and provides us with a deeper understanding of emotions, self-awareness, and more.
How can I appreciate art?
You can appreciate art by visiting museums and galleries, reading up about art and art movements, writing to your favorite artists, or even giving a shoutout to emerging artists on your social media account.
How To Celebrate American Artist Appreciation Month
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Support local artists
What better way to celebrate American Artist Appreciation Month than by supporting local and emerging artists? Buy their art and give them a shoutout on your social media account.
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Visit a museum
Visit museums, exhibitions, and art galleries to check out the latest display or revisit your favorite artworks. Visit as many art venues in your city as you can.
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Read an artist’s biography
Want to know more about your favorite artists and their creative process? Read a biography about them or watch a movie based on their life.
5 Facts About Famous Artists That Will Blow Your Mind
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Picasso also has a notorious reputation
Pablo Picasso was also accused of being an art thief.
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Leonardo Da Vinci was a procrastinator
Leonardo Da Vinci was a procrastinator — this is exactly why so many of his artworks are unfinished.
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Jackson Pollock painted with cigarettes
Many of Jackson Pollock’s abstract paintings were painted using cigarette stubs.
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Monet’s father didn’t approve of his painting
Claude Monet’s father didn’t approve of his painting and rather wanted him to become a grocer.
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First living person to exhibit in the Louvre
Georges Braque was the first living person to have his art displayed in the Louvre — before him, artists were posthumously displayed at the museum.
Why We Love American Artist Appreciation Month
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It celebrates artists
Artists bring us joy and comfort through their artworks. American Artist Appreciation Month is a month-long celebration that conveys our gratitude to artists.
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It helps us explore new art
This is the perfect time to explore new artists and art styles. You could discover something new in not just painting but also pottery, architecture, or photography.
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It celebrates America’s rich artistic history
Along with exemplary artists and their artworks, American Artist Appreciation Month also celebrates the various art schools and movements that emerged in the U.S.
American Artist Appreciation Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | August 1 | Tuesday |
| 2024 | August 1 | Thursday |
| 2025 | August 1 | Friday |
| 2026 | August 1 | Saturday |
| 2027 | August 1 | Sunday |
