What is the Government Art Collection?
Almost 125 years-old, the Government Art Collection displays works of art in British government buildings in the UK and over 125 countries around the world. Its 15,000 works of art from the 16th century to today promote British art, history and culture worldwide.
David Hockney, Luncheon at the British Embassy, Tokyo, 16 February 1983 © David Hockney / image: Hiroshi Sumitomo (Japan).
What does the Collection do?
The Government Art Collection contributes to the UK’s cultural diplomacy and delivers an expression of its soft power, culture and values, in government buildings at home and abroad. Staff from the Collection curate displays of art, oversee the transport, and handle the conservation of each of these 15,000 works.
The Government Art Collection is part of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. Central government funds the Collection’s core work, and particular projects are funded through partnerships and philanthropic support.
John Dugger, Time-Zones, 1986 © John Dugger
Where can I see the Collection?
We want as many people as possible to see the works of art in this national collection. You can explore these online or by following us on X and Instagram. If you want to see the works in the Collection for yourself, we frequently loan works to exhibitions, partnership projects and public programmes.
Mel Brimfield’s 4′ 33″ (Prepared Pianola for Roger Bannister) on display as part of Ways of Seeing / image: Thierry Bal.
Do you still collect works of art?
Yes, we do. We collect works by artists who are British or have a connection to the UK, and place this art in significant locations, celebrating and showcasing the UK’s commitment to culture.
How do you collect artwork?
While the Collection works alongside government, our curators decide which works of art are brought into the Collection and how they are displayed. Curators choose to acquire works, with input from an Advisory Committee which consists of directors of national art institutions in the UK, and independent arts professionals.
Recent acquisitions
Explore more
Where can I see the Collection?
Find out where you can see the Government Art Collection, through loans to exhibitions and collections across the UK.
A working collection
Works from the Collection are regularly on the move. Find out what’s needed to make this happen and the job mission of the artworks themselves
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 as a cost-effective way to decorate government rooms, we've grown into a diverse and dynamic collection that represents the UK at home and abroad.