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World Watercolor Month

Unleash your creativity and join in on the vibrant celebration of World Watercolor Month - a perfect opportunity to paint your heart out!

Wednesday

1–31

July 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of July

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYHobbies

SUBCATEGORYArts & Crafts

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get your paint brushes ready for World Watercolor Month on July 1! This month-long celebration of watercolor painting was started in 2016 by artist and teacher Charlie O'Shields, with the goal of promoting creativity and connection through the medium of watercolors. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out, this month is the perfect time to explore the beauty and versatility of watercolors. So grab your paints and let your imagination run wild as you join artists all over the world in celebrating this colorful and vibrant holiday.

TIMELINE

World Watercolor Month Timeline

Commercial Watercolor Manufactured

During the early 1800s, the first commercial watercolor paints were produced, marking a significant milestone in the history of the medium.

Winsor & Newton Founded

Winsor & Newton, a notable brand in artist supplies, including watercolor paint, was established in 1835.

American Society of Painters in Water Color

The American Watercolor Society was founded, under the name “American Society of Painters in Water Colors”, spotlighting watercolor painting on a national level.

Watercolor in Modern Art Movements

Throughout the 1900s, watercolor painting played an integral role in modern art movements, expanding its range and influence in the art world.

World Watercolor Month Inception

Artist and teacher Charlie O'Shields initiated World Watercolor Month, promoting creativity and connection through watercolor painting.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate World Watercolor Month

Create a watercolor challenge

Challenge yourself to create a new watercolor painting every day for the month of July. This will not only improve your skills but also help you celebrate World Watercolor Month in a meaningful way.

ATTEND

Attend a watercolor workshop

Sign up for a watercolor workshop or class to learn new techniques and meet other artists. This is a great way to celebrate World Watercolor Month and expand your knowledge and skills.

ORGANIZE

Organize a watercolor painting party

Invite friends over for a fun and creative watercolor painting party! Provide supplies and snacks, and spend the evening painting and enjoying each other's company.

VISIT

Visit a local art exhibit

Support local artists by visiting a watercolor-themed art exhibit or gallery. This is a great way to celebrate World Watercolor Month and appreciate the beauty and diversity of this medium.

CREATE

Create a watercolor journal

Document your journey through World Watercolor Month by creating a special watercolor journal. Use it to record your thoughts, techniques, and progress throughout the month.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love World Watercolor Month

It's a community-focused event

Not only does World Watercolor Month promote personal creativity but also encourages connection and support within the global watercolor community. Artists from all over the world come together during this event to share their work, give and receive feedback, and inspire each other to try new things. It's a great opportunity to make new connections and learn from others in the art world.

It's a chance to explore your creativity

World Watercolor Month is the perfect time to pick up a paintbrush and let your imagination run wild. Whether you're an experienced artist or just starting out, this month-long event encourages everyone to try their hand at watercolor painting and experiment with different techniques and styles.

Watercolors are accessible and affordable

Unlike other forms of art that require expensive materials, watercolor painting can be done with just a few basic supplies - making it accessible to people of all ages and budgets. So don't be afraid to join in on the fun this World Watercolor Month!

Related holidays

National Arts Month

Get ready to unleash your creativity and dive into National Arts Month - a month-long celebration of all things artistic and inspiring!

American Artist Appreciation Month

It's time to show some love for American artists! Celebrate their creativity and talent all month long with events, exhibits, and more.

Inspire Your Heart with Art Day

Unleash your creativity and celebrate Inspire Your Heart with Art Day - a day to appreciate all forms of art and its ability to touch our hearts and souls.

National Arts & Humanities Month

Unleash your creativity and celebrate National Arts & Humanities Month with workshops, exhibits, performances, and more!

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