Stories that inspire: current displays category

Read the fascinating stories of how and why artworks have been selected for show around the world.

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A closer look: Battlefields of Britain

During the Second World War, the funding and provision of art for government buildings and embassies was paused. A small number of works were lost, damaged or destroyed as a result of the hostilities, with one exception.

A Life Livelier: British art and diplomacy in Costa Rica

23 artworks from the Collection hang on the walls of the British Ambassador’s Residence in San José. From historical prints to modern and contemporary art, the new display gives us an insight into the cultural and diplomatic connections between the UK and Costa Rica.

A most unlikely Ambassador

75 years ago, Sir Horace Phillips – the first British Jewish career ambassador – entered the diplomatic service. A new display of works from the Government Art Collection in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office celebrates his life and career.

‘Sentimental meanderings’: a new display in Berne

Diplomatic relations between the UK and Switzerland were established in the early 19th century.

A global reception: the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is responsible for protecting and promoting the UK’s interests worldwide. In 2022, new works of art from the Government Art Collection went up on the walls of its iconic building in London.

Journeys of the heart: the UK and the Holy See

2022 marked 40 years of full diplomatic relations between the UK and The Holy See.

Eye of the Sultan: a new display for Ankara

During the 18th century, diplomatic relations between the UK and Turkey were formalised. A new display of works of art in the British Ambassador’s Residence in Ankara tells the story of this historic engagement, and follows the countries' shared histories.