World Art Nouveau Day
World Art Nouveau Day, celebrated on June 10, is dedicated to two of its protagonists, Antoni Gaudí and Ödön Lechner, both of whom passed away on this date.
By Italia Liberty
Andrea Speziali
Palau Güell, Barcelona (1888/1888) by Antoni GaudíItalia Liberty
A Day for Art Nouveau
World Art Nouveau Day, celebrated every June 10th, recognizes the transformative art and architecture style that blossomed at the turn of the century.
The Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Barcelona, Spain (1882) by Antoni GaudíItalia Liberty
Why 10 June
The date commemorates the deaths of Antoni Gaudí and Ödön Lechner, two key figures of the movement. Their passing marks not an end, but a symbolic continuity of their artistic legacy.
Casa Batlló, Barcelona, Spain (1904/1904) by Antoni GaudíItalia Liberty
The Origins of WAND
The first edition was launched in 2013 by the Museum of Applied Arts in Budapest in collaboration with Szecessziós Magazin. Its aim was to raise awareness of Art Nouveau heritage through events, tours, and public initiatives.
An International Network
Three major organizations support WAND: the Art Nouveau European Route, the Réseau Art Nouveau Network, and the cultural coordination of Italia Liberty. Together, they connect institutions, scholars, and audiences across Europe.
Casa Batlló, Barcelona, Spain (1904/1904) by Antoni GaudíItalia Liberty
Italia Liberty and curation
In Italy, the day is promoted by Italia Liberty and curated by Prof. Andrea Speziali. The association organizes exhibitions, events, and projects to promote and preserve Art Nouveau heritage.
Themes that tell a story
Each edition explores a different theme—from stained glass to materials, from light to color. In 2026, the focus is on women of Art Nouveau, while Italia Liberty highlights the sea as a symbolic thread of flowing forms and natural inspiration.
A living legacy
WAND is more than a celebration—it is a living experience. Through tours, lectures, and cultural events, 10 June becomes a bridge between past and present, where the dream of the Belle Époque continues to inspire the world.
Themes of the Art Nouveau Week through the years
2018: My Favourite Art Nouveau Architect
2019: Staircases
2020: Stained-glass
2021: Animals
2022: Typography
2023: Materials
2024: Light
2025: Color
2026: Women of Art Nouveau
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