Slow Art Day

On April 11, the McMichael marks Slow Art Day—a global invitation to slow down, look closely, and experience the joy of connecting with art at your own pace.

To support this mindful approach, the galleries will be kept as quiet as possible, with additional seating available throughout. There will be no public tours, allowing space for uninterrupted reflection and personal discovery. All are welcome.

Proud Participant of Slow Art Day

Not sure where to begin? Start with a 15-minute introduction to Slow Art Day, followed by a self-guided sketching activity designed to deepen your engagement with an artwork of your choice. Sketching materials and stools will be provided.

Recipe for a Successful
Slow Art Day

Suggestions to get started:

• Choose the work that attracts you in the gallery spaces.
• Stand or sit on a gallery stool in front of the work.
• Close your eyes, slow your breath, and relax for around 20-30 seconds.
• When you open your eyes again, allow your attention to drift to the part of the work that pulls you in.
• Allow your eyes and mind to stay there for a moment without trying to find meaning.
• Now contemplate what brought your attention to this area: the subject matter? Color and light? Texture?
• Slowly breathe the image in…
• Enjoy it…
• When ready move your eyes naturally to another point of attraction.
• Repeat this activity again and again, looking for visual transitions such as colors, lines, textures, and movements.
• Slowly build your own personal understanding of the artwork. It can mean more than one thing, nor nothing at all.
• When you are comfortable and satisfied with your observations: Read the label!