World Book Day at Bradbury Art Museum

Join us at Bradbury Art Museum for a celebration of literature and art! In honor of World Book Day, we're thrilled to showcase free books from Ray Allen Parker's captivating LIT exhibition. Dive into a world of imagination and discovery with these literary gems.

Enhancing your reading experience further, don't miss out on exclusive bookmarks designed by the talented artists of Arkansas State University's Student Art Union. These unique bookmarks are not just placeholders but pieces of art that you can treasure alongside your favorite reads.

Whether you're a bookworm, an art enthusiast, or just looking for a delightful day out, World Book Day at Bradbury Art Museum promises something for everyone. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in a world where art meets literature! Join us and celebrate the magic of books.

In conjunction with our World Book Day celebration in BAM, enjoy the show with more context using the Exhibition Resource Guide designed and provided by the Dean B. Ellis Library. Be sure to visit them on Arkansas State University’s campus for more resources.

But that's not all! As a special treat, visitors can receive a complimentary rose in honor of the Day of the Rose and Sant Jordi's legend. Be sure to stop by and celebrate as books, roses, and bookmarks are limited!

Before 1931, April 23 was celebrated as Sant Jordi's Day or the Day of the Rose in Catalonia, honoring Saint George, known as San Jorge in other parts of Spain and Europe.

The tradition traces back to April 23, 303 AD, when a soldier named George was beheaded by the Romans, likely in Greece. Over time, this real event evolved into a legendary tale in Catalonia, where Sant Jordi slayed a dragon to save a princess. From the dragon's blood, a rose bush sprouted, and Sant Jordi gave a rose to the princess. Legend has it that a rose bush still blooms there every April.

By 1456, Sant Jordi was officially named the patron saint of Catalonia, marking the start of the tradition to exchange roses on this day. Interestingly, the first Catalan printed book was published in 1474.

In the 1700s, Sant Jordi's Day waned in popularity due to political changes and the fall of Barcelona. However, by the late 1800s, during the Renaixença cultural revival, the celebration regained its significance and popularity in Catalonia.