In a recent discussion about Art UK's monumental achievement of digitizing one million entries from UK public art collections, Prof Robin Simon has brought to light the crucial contributions of Fred Hohler, the visionary founder behind this initiative. While Art UK's new chair has received attention, Simon emphasizes that it was Hohler who laid the groundwork for this digital revolution through his establishment of the Public Catalogue Foundation, now operating under the Art UK trademark.
The Inspirational Aim of Fred Hohler
Fred Hohler's original goal was nothing short of ambitious: to catalog every single oil painting held in public collections across the United Kingdom. This endeavor, driven by a passion for preserving and sharing cultural heritage, has successfully transitioned into a comprehensive online database accessible to art enthusiasts, researchers, and the general public worldwide. Prof Simon, serving as the editor of the British Art Journal, expressed astonishment that Hohler's role was overlooked in recent coverage, underscoring the need to recognize his foundational work.
From Oil Paintings to Watercolours: Expanding the Vision
Having accomplished his initial mission with Art UK, Hohler has not rested on his laurels. He is currently spearheading an even larger project known as The Watercolour World, a charity that enjoys the patronage of the king and queen. This initiative aims to document and digitize watercolour artworks on a global scale, further extending Hohler's legacy of making art accessible through technology. The continuity from the Public Catalogue Foundation to Art UK and now to The Watercolour World demonstrates Hohler's unwavering commitment to cultural preservation.
The impact of Hohler's work extends beyond mere digitization; it fosters greater public engagement with art, supports academic research, and ensures that these cultural treasures are safeguarded for future generations. As Art UK continues to grow, with over a million entries now available online, the foundation set by Hohler remains a testament to the power of visionary leadership in the arts sector.
Prof Simon's letter serves as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging the pioneers behind such transformative projects. In an era where digital access is increasingly vital, Hohler's contributions highlight how individual dedication can drive widespread cultural enrichment and innovation.
