National Colouring Book Day

A young child joyfully coloring in a sunny park, wearing a colorful summer outfit, surrounded by flowers and butterflies.. — National colouring book day illustration

Hey there art enthusiasts and coloring connoisseurs! Get your crayons, markers, and colored pencils ready because it's time to celebrate National Coloring Book Day!

When is Colouring Book Day?

It's national colouring book day on the 2nd August.

The Artistic Origins of National Coloring Book Day

Every August 2nd, creative souls from all around the world come together to honor the joy and relaxation that coloring books bring. It's a day dedicated to embracing your inner child and expressing your artistic side. But how did this beloved holiday come to be?

The history of coloring books can be traced back to the 17th century, when the concept of coloring illustrations became popular in Europe. Initially, coloring books were created for adults as a form of art therapy. These intricate designs provided a calming and meditative experience, allowing individuals to de-stress and find solace in vibrant hues.

However, it wasn't until the 19th century that coloring books began to cater to children. British painter Kate Greenaway is often credited as one of the pioneers of children's coloring books. Her beautifully illustrated books featured simple outlines for young ones to fill in with their favorite shades, sparking their imagination and nurturing their artistic abilities.

In the digital age, coloring books have experienced a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to the advent of printable coloring pages and coloring book apps. Whether you prefer the traditional method of coloring on paper or enjoy the convenience of a digital palette, National Coloring Book Day is the perfect occasion to let your creativity run wild.

The Benefits of Coloring

Coloring isn't just a delightful pastime; it also offers a myriad of benefits for people of all ages. Here are a few reasons why you should grab your coloring tools and start creating:

Stress Relief: Coloring has been shown to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. It allows your mind to focus on the present moment and provides a break from the pressures of everyday life.
Creative Outlet: Coloring is a fantastic way to express yourself artistically. You can experiment with different color combinations, shading techniques, and styles, all while unleashing your inner Picasso.
Improved Concentration: Engaging in coloring activities requires concentration and attention to detail. This helps sharpen your focus and enhance your cognitive abilities.
Childlike Wonder: It's no secret that coloring brings out the childlike joy in all of us. Revisit your carefree days and let your imagination take the reins as you fill in whimsical designs and bring them to life.

So, whether you want to channel your inner Monet, alleviate stress, or simply have some colorful fun, National Coloring Book Day is the perfect excuse to embark on a creative adventure!

History behind the term 'Colouring Book'

1760

Emergence of the coloring technique

The history of coloring books can be traced back to the 18th century when the coloring technique started gaining popularity. During this time, people began using watercolors and ink to add color to printed images in books and other media. This marked the early stages of coloring as a recreational activity.

1880

Rise of the coloring book industry

In the late 19th century, publishers recognized the growing interest in coloring and started producing dedicated coloring books. Initially, these books contained a mix of images to color and pages for creative drawing. They were primarily designed for adult audiences and often featured intricate designs and landscapes.

1907

Introduction of the term 'coloring book'

The term 'coloring book' was first used in 1907 when McLoughlin Brothers, a renowned publishing firm, released a coloring book titled 'The Little Folks' Painting Book.' This marked the beginning of the term's widespread adoption and its association with dedicated books intended for coloring activities.

1960

Popularity among children

Coloring books became especially popular among children during the 1960s. The appeal of coloring activities grew rapidly, thanks to the introduction of coloring books featuring popular characters from television shows, movies, and comics. This trend led to a surge in the production of children-oriented coloring books.

1990

Digital coloring books

With the advent of personal computers and digital media, coloring books also found their way into the digital realm. The 1990s saw the emergence of digital coloring books in software formats, allowing users to color images on computer screens using a variety of virtual tools and colors.

Present

Diverse themes and therapeutic benefits

Today, coloring books have evolved into a diverse range of themes, catering to different interests, age groups, and purposes. They are not only enjoyed by children but have also gained popularity among adults as a therapeutic artistic activity to relieve stress and promote mindfulness.

Did you know?

Did you know? Coloring books for adults are often referred to as 'art therapy' because they provide a therapeutic experience that promotes mindfulness and relaxation.