Art, Power, Diplomacy

The Government Art Collection consists of approximately 13,500 works of art by mostly British artists in a variety of media including paintings, sculpture, drawings, prints, photographs, textiles and video works, dating from the 16th century to the present day. The diverse nature of the collection, its global reach, its role in promoting British art and culture and its 113-year history come together to create a remarkable story. Works are displayed in 450 locations worldwide, including 10 and 11 Downing Street, Government buildings in Whitehall and diplomatic posts abroad. The wide range of artists represented include John Constable, Thomas Gainsborough, Tracey Emin, Gilbert & George, Barbara Hepworth, Damien Hirst, Lucian Freud, William Hogarth, Runa Islam, Paul Nash, Cornelia Parker, Grayson Perry, Mark Titchner and Donald Urquhart. This, the first publication of its kind on the Government Art Collection, presents the fascinating history of this wonderfully eclectic collection, providing an insight into its changing and expanding role since its inception, while also showcasing a wide range of key works alongside a wealth of contextual material.