If you’re ever looking for a way to relax, coloring is considered one of the best methods. While most of us remember filling in coloring books as children, this is a hobby you can continue into adulthood as well. Color Our Collections is offering more opportunities to use your colored pencils and other art supplies. Since 2016, this campaign initiated by The New York Academy of Medicine Library collects coloring pages from over 100 cultural institutions from across the globe and makes them free to download online. The illustrations from Color Our Collections differ from books you would ordinarily buy in the store. Ranging from floral drawings to depictions of fairies, these designs are rich in history. Some are plucked from vintage advertising, while others are acquired from old novels. Since most of these artworks were not meant to be colored in, they offer a fun challenge for those up to the task. But the best part of participating in the campaign is getting a chance to explore some of the old artwork from these museums and libraries by bringing them to life in color.
Color Our Collections Campaign
Background Information
Color Our Collections is a campaign initiated by The New York Academy of Medicine Library in 2016. It aims to collect coloring pages from over 100 cultural institutions from around the world and make them available for free download online. Coloring has been a proven method for relaxation, and this campaign provides a unique and creative way for people of all ages to engage with art.
Purpose and Goal
The purpose of Color Our Collections is to bring together the diverse artwork from museums and libraries and make it accessible to the public in a fun and interactive way. By providing free printable coloring pages, the campaign encourages individuals to explore different cultural institutions and appreciate art from various perspectives.
The goal of Color Our Collections is to promote creativity, relaxation, and the appreciation of art. Through coloring, participants can bring the artwork to life and experience the joy of creating their own interpretations.
Participants
Over 100 cultural institutions from around the world participate in the Color Our Collections campaign. Some notable participants in the 2023 edition include the New York Academy of Medicine Library, Chicago Botanic Garden Lenhardt Library, Eton College, Fairfield University Art Museum, Lithuanian National Museum of Art, Maastricht University Library, and Toronto Public Library, among many others.
Artworks Available
The Color Our Collections campaign offers a wide range of coloring pages based on the acquisitions of participating museums and libraries. The illustrations are unique and diverse, ranging from floral drawings to depictions of fairies. Many of these illustrations are rich in history, sourced from vintage advertising or old novels.
Features of the Coloring Book Pages
Unique Illustrations
The coloring book pages offered by Color Our Collections are distinct and unlike those found in conventional coloring books. Each illustration reflects the unique style and history of the artwork it is derived from. From intricate floral patterns to enchanting fairytale scenes, these pages promise a captivating coloring experience.
Rich in History
The coloring book pages curated by Color Our Collections have a rich historical context. They feature artwork from different time periods and cultural movements, allowing participants to engage with the history and evolution of art. Coloring these pages becomes not only a creative endeavor but also an opportunity to learn and appreciate the stories behind the artwork.
Challenges and Creativity
While coloring may seem like a simple task, the Color Our Collections coloring pages offer challenges that require creativity and experimentation. Unlike traditional coloring books, these illustrations were not initially intended to be colored in. Some designs may have limited space for coloring, while others may require unconventional color choices. These challenges inspire participants to think outside the box and explore their own artistic interpretations.
Exploring Artwork from Museums and Libraries
Bringing Old Artwork to Life
One of the highlights of participating in the Color Our Collections campaign is the opportunity to bring old artwork to life through coloring. Many of the illustrations available for coloring come from museums and libraries, where they are preserved as artifacts of cultural significance. By coloring these pages, participants can engage with and recontextualize the artwork, adding their own personal touch and interpretation.
Benefits of Participating
Participating in Color Our Collections offers several benefits. Firstly, it provides a creative outlet for individuals of all ages to unwind and relax. Coloring has been proven to reduce stress and anxiety, making it an ideal activity for self-care and mindfulness. Additionally, engaging with artwork from different cultural institutions broadens one’s horizons and fosters a deeper appreciation for art and history.
The Color Our Collections Online Archive
Free Printable Coloring Pages
The Color Our Collections online archive provides free printable coloring pages for individuals to download and enjoy. These coloring pages are available in a convenient format, making it easy for anyone to access and print them from the comfort of their own home. The accessibility of the online archive ensures that the joy of coloring is accessible to all.
Over 100 Cultural Institutions
The Color Our Collections online archive features contributions from over 100 cultural institutions worldwide. This diverse selection of coloring pages allows participants to explore artwork from various museums and libraries in one centralized location. The range of institutions involved ensures that there is something for everyone, catering to different artistic preferences and interests.
Acquisitions from Museums and Libraries
The coloring pages available in the Color Our Collections online archive are sourced from the acquisitions of participating museums and libraries. This means that participants have the chance to engage with and color artwork that may not be widely accessible otherwise. By providing these coloring pages, the campaign encourages individuals to connect with the cultural heritage preserved in institutions around the world.
Museums and Libraries Participating in #ColorOurCollections 2023
- New York Academy of Medicine Library
- Chicago Botanic Garden, Lenhardt Library
- Eton College
- Fairfield University Art Museum
- Lafayette College Libraries
- Lithuanian National Museum of Art
- Maastricht University Library
- New York Botanical Garden
- Princeton University Library
- Saint Francis de Sales Parish History Archives
- Toronto Public Library
- University of Waterloo Special Collections & Archives
The above list represents just a few of the many museums and libraries participating in the Color Our Collections campaign in 2023. The collective efforts of these institutions contribute to the diverse range of coloring pages available for individuals to enjoy.
How to Access the Coloring Book Pages
To access the coloring book pages, simply visit the Color Our Collections website. The website provides a user-friendly interface where participants can browse and select the coloring pages they wish to download and print. Once downloaded, the coloring pages can be printed on standard printer paper or specialty coloring paper for the best coloring experience.
Promotion of #ColorOurCollections 2023
Social Media Hashtags
The Color Our Collections campaign can be promoted through the use of the hashtag #ColorOurCollections2023 on social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. By sharing their colored pages and experiences with the campaign, participants can further engage with the online community and inspire others to join in the coloring fun.
Mentions in External Websites
The Color Our Collections campaign can also be promoted through mentions on external websites, such as art blogs, news outlets, and cultural websites. These mentions can help spread awareness about the campaign and increase its reach, attracting a wider audience of art enthusiasts and coloring aficionados.
Media Coverage
Media coverage plays a crucial role in promoting the Color Our Collections campaign. By reaching out to media outlets, such as newspapers, magazines, and television networks, the campaign can garner greater visibility and generate interest from a broader audience. Media coverage can highlight the unique aspects of the campaign and emphasize the relaxation, creativity, and appreciation of art that it offers.
Conclusion
The Color Our Collections campaign provides a wonderful opportunity for individuals to engage with art from different cultural institutions in a fun and interactive way. By offering free printable coloring pages, the campaign encourages creativity, relaxation, and an appreciation for the diverse range of artwork found in museums and libraries. Whether you are new to coloring or a seasoned enthusiast, Color Our Collections invites you to enjoy the free coloring book pages and explore the artistic treasures preserved in institutions around the world.
