Art in the British Embassy (DC)

Reigning Queens, Andy Warhol

The Art in Embassies (AIE) program has played a role through a focused mission of cross-cultural dialogue and understanding through the visual arts and artist exchange.  This program started in 1963 and is a global public-private partnership.

Damien Hirst

Professional curators and registrars create and ship about 60 exhibitions per year and over 58 permanent collections have been installed in the Department’s diplomatic facilities throughout the world.   Artists can join the registry through the State Department's website.  This registry offers a registered artist the exposure to AIE's internal curators, who have the responsibility of researching and selecting the artwork for all exhibitions and collections.  They look for art in all media, styles and shapes.

Today I visited the British Embassy and learned the history of the buildings, art and grounds.  The permanent art collection in the British Embassy includes historic works (prints c.1707) and contemporary artist Damien Hirst.  There was a sunlit view, works of art and hints of family or business life around every corner.

As Lady Westmacott says, it is a “building that works very hard”.  She recently created a lavishly illustrated book entitled, “The Architecture of Diplomacy: The British Ambassador’s Residence in Washington.”  The book outlines the historic creation of the residence and changes

Queen's Crown

made over time.

Not surprising, evidence of the queen is everywhere..from portraits in the ballroom to the crowns on the light fixtures (inside and out). I toured the state rooms, admired a striking David Hockney painting as I passed a Damien Hirst's spot painting in the corridor on my way to the terrace to the view gardens, greenhouses and pool.  A beautiful day to see the British ambassador’s residence.  Art can transcend national borders, build connections, add color and style to life! Brilliant!

David Hockney

Garden Succulents