Art UK, the charity dedicated to digitising the nation's public art, has announced it has reached one million artworks in its online database. The milestone comes as the organisation marks its 10th anniversary and appoints Ben Terrett as its new chair.
Terrett, a former director of design for the UK government and CEO of consultancy Public Digital, described the achievement as just the beginning. 'We've only scratched the surface,' he said. The database includes works from major institutions like the Tate as well as lesser-known pieces in hospitals, council buildings, and other public spaces.
Among the eclectic collection are a Rodin bronze of Eve outside a Nando's in Harlow, over 6,000 JMW Turner works, and a crumpled piece of A4 paper by Turner Prize winner Martin Creed owned by Manchester Art Gallery. Recent additions helping reach the million mark include a Henri Matisse stencil at the University of Lancaster and a Gwen John painting at National Museum Cardiff.
Terrett, who received a CBE last week, emphasised the database's role in revealing artworks held in storage. He also highlighted the importance of widening access, noting his own childhood in a Wiltshire village with limited access to museums and galleries. The Art UK board expressed confidence that Terrett's fresh thinking will help the charity reach new audiences and embrace new technologies.
