About the Collection

For 125 years, the Government Art Collection has championed British art, history and culture around the world. Find out how it all began and the ways in which the Collection has developed across time.

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What is the Government Art Collection?

Why does the Government have an art collection? What does it collect? Why is the Collection spread across the world?

Image of a headless King Henry VIII wearing decorative costume

History of the Collection

For 125 years, the Government Art Collection has been acquiring and displaying artworks that showcase British creativity and culture. From our humble beginnings in 1899, we've grown into a dynamic collection that represents the UK at home and abroad.

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Advisory Committee

The role of the Advisory Committee is to approve the acquisition and commission of works of art and to advise on the policy and stewardship of the Collection. See who the current members are.