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International Lego Classicism Day

Crafting with Lego pieces breathes life into historical epochs, enabling miniature portrayals of ancient civilizations and events.

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Activate LEGO enthusiasts and history buffs in February by positioning historical brick-building as both educational play and shareable creative content, driving engagement with niche communities and retail tie-ins.

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Build ancient wonders with LEGO: Share your Colosseum, Parthenon, or Pompeii creations and tag #LegoClassicism
Portrait mini-figures of historical figures: Challenge followers to recreate famous scholars, archaeologists, or ancient leaders in brick form
Join the Brick Classicists Empire: Spotlight the global community of history lovers using LEGO as a learning and creative tool
Educational + playful: Position LEGO historical builds as accessible ways to engage kids and adults with ancient civilizations

History

International Lego Classicism Day got its start in 2017 as a bit of a tongue-in-cheek event founded by Liam D. Jensen, also known as “The Lego Classicist”.

Jensen, from Sydney, Australia, was the founder of the Brick Classicists Empire (BCE), previously known as Lego Classicists. The Brick Classicists Empire is a vibrant online community, with members all over the globe, brought together through their love for the ancient world and the ability to connect it with play.

Specifically, the BCE combines history with pop-art and culture to engage with the ancient world through LEGO bricks and figures.

From scholars to archaeologists, museum directors to archivists and so many others, the BCE is made up of folks worldwide who are connected through their love for the ancient world and desire to better understand through LEGO.

International Lego Classicism Day takes place on this day because it is the anniversary of the formation of the BCE, which was on February 20, 2016.

The purpose of the day is for individuals and groups to participate and learn by using LEGO style bricks to depict ancient history and share it with the rest of the world.

Over the years, different museums around the world have acted as official hosts for International Lego Classicism Day.

Past host museums have included The Hellenic Museum in Melbourne, Australia and The British School at Athens, in Greece. In addition, a new International Lego Classicist of the Year is awarded a special honor and trophy in celebration of the day!

How to celebrate

Play with Ancient History and LEGO

One of the best ways to get connected with International Lego Classicism Day would be to grab a collection of LEGO style bricks and have some fun! One of the ways one member of the BCE likes to get involved is to use the mini-figures to make “portrait” replicas of important people in the industry.

Build and Share Historical Structures

Other ideas might be to use LEGO bricks to build various architectural structures from ancient history such as Pompei or the Acropolis. Don’t forget to take photos of the artist with the creation and share on social media!

Connect with the Brick Classicists Empire (BCE)

People who work in the field or are interested in experiencing ancient history through the accessible and inclusive use of LEGO bricks might want to get more involved with the BCE. Regardless of culture, language, education or skills, people can connect with the ancient world with bricks. This not only facilitates learning about history, but also encourages playfulness, diversity and connection. Check out the BCE on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram to learn more about this unique community and connect with events throughout the world. International Lego Classicism Day Timeline1949 Automatic Binding Bricks Introduced The Lego Group launches its first plastic “Automatic Binding Bricks,” a precursor to the modern LEGO system, laying the technical foundation for later detailed architectural and historical builds. [1]1958 Modern LEGO Brick Patented LEGO patents its stud‑and‑tube interlocking brick design, creating the precise, stable system that makes it possible to construct complex, classically inspired models and sculptures. [1]Early 1960s Scale Model Line Targets Architecture LEGO introduces the Scale Model line, an early attempt to market bricks for realistic buildings, foreshadowing later adult interest in architectural accuracy and classical styles. [1]Early 1980s Early LEGO Sculpture of Michelangelo’s David Fan builders begin exhibiting ambitious LEGO sculptures, including an early recreation of Michelangelo’s “David,” signaling the use of LEGO as a medium to reinterpret classical art. [1]2008 LEGO Architecture Theme Debuts The LEGO Architecture theme launches with landmark-focused sets, encouraging adult fans to explore architectural history and refine techniques for detailed, historically grounded models. [1]2013 Brick History Exhibition Concept Developed Artist Warren Elsmore develops “Brick History,” a touring exhibition that uses LEGO dioramas to depict key moments from world history, demonstrating how bricks can teach the past visually. [1]2023 History Workshops with LEGO in Museums and Schools Specialist facilitators, such as Bricks McGee in the UK, run structured history workshops using LEGO to explore Romans, Vikings, Ancient Egypt and more, formalizing bricks as tools for classical education. [1]

Automatic Binding Bricks Introduced

The Lego Group launches its first plastic “Automatic Binding Bricks,” a precursor to the modern LEGO system, laying the technical foundation for later detailed architectural and historical builds. [1]

Modern LEGO Brick Patented

LEGO patents its stud‑and‑tube interlocking brick design, creating the precise, stable system that makes it possible to construct complex, classically inspired models and sculptures. [1]

Scale Model Line Targets Architecture

LEGO introduces the Scale Model line, an early attempt to market bricks for realistic buildings, foreshadowing later adult interest in architectural accuracy and classical styles. [1]

Early LEGO Sculpture of Michelangelo’s David

Fan builders begin exhibiting ambitious LEGO sculptures, including an early recreation of Michelangelo’s “David,” signaling the use of LEGO as a medium to reinterpret classical art. [1]

LEGO Architecture Theme Debuts

The LEGO Architecture theme launches with landmark-focused sets, encouraging adult fans to explore architectural history and refine techniques for detailed, historically grounded models. [1]

Brick History Exhibition Concept Developed

Artist Warren Elsmore develops “Brick History,” a touring exhibition that uses LEGO dioramas to depict key moments from world history, demonstrating how bricks can teach the past visually. [1]

History Workshops with LEGO in Museums and Schools

Specialist facilitators, such as Bricks McGee in the UK, run structured history workshops using LEGO to explore Romans, Vikings, Ancient Egypt and more, formalizing bricks as tools for classical education. [1]

FAQ

Why do some Lego fans consider “Classicism” an art movement in Lego building?

Some Lego fans think of “Classicism” as an art style, similar to classic art movements like Renaissance or Baroque. Classicism in Lego often emphasizes symmetry, precision, and harmony. Builders focus on intricate designs, often creating historically accurate or myth-inspired scenes. This trend is popular in parts of Europe and North America, where builders aim to capture the essence of classical art in brick form. This approach adds depth to Lego creations, pushing them beyond toys to works of art.

What unique traditions exist for celebrating International Lego Classicism Day?

In some countries, fans gather to hold “Brick Battles,” a type of live competition where builders recreate famous historical battles using Legos. In Japan, some Lego artists recreate scenes from traditional Japanese mythology, blending classicism with cultural storytelling. In Denmark, Lego’s birthplace, builders celebrate by creating miniatures of iconic Danish landmarks, like Kronborg Castle. This international diversity reflects the holiday’s unique place in global Lego culture.

How did the concept of ‘Lego Classicism’ begin?

The concept of “Lego Classicism” emerged in the late 20th century as adult fans began to create more sophisticated, themed builds. Inspired by ancient architecture, myths, and art, these fans viewed Lego as a medium for classic art forms, rather than just toys. This trend gained traction on early online forums, where builders shared designs of Greek temples, Roman sculptures, and ancient mosaics.

Are there famous myths or misconceptions about Lego bricks?

Yes, one quirky myth claims Lego bricks will eventually run out due to overuse. However, Lego has produced over 400 billion bricks, enough to stretch around the world five times. Another misconception is that Lego bricks are recyclable, but the ABS plastic in Legos doesn’t easily break down. Lego is exploring sustainable alternatives but hasn’t phased out its classic material yet.

How does ‘Lego Classicism’ differ from regular Lego building?

Lego Classicism often requires historical accuracy and involves a detailed approach to architecture. Unlike typical Lego sets or free builds, classicist builds aim to capture the beauty and balance of real-world art and architecture. Builders pay close attention to color, symmetry, and scale, often replicating famous classical statues or scenes.

What’s the oldest known Lego sculpture inspired by classic art?

One of the earliest known Lego sculptures based on classic art was a recreation of Michelangelo’s David, built in the early 1980s. This piece was displayed at a Lego convention and quickly became a symbol of the creative potential of Lego. Since then, many builders have replicated classic artworks, including The Thinker and the Parthenon, using Lego as a medium.

Are there any famous artists who work with Lego exclusively?

Yes! Nathan Sawaya, an American artist, is famous for his Lego sculptures, which have toured internationally. His work combines Lego with classic themes, including Greek mythology and human figures, in life-size form. Other artists like Ai Weiwei have used Lego in political art, though not exclusively. Sawaya’s unique pieces help cement Lego’s place in the art world.

Why do people hold Lego Classicism workshops?

Lego Classicism workshops help builders learn techniques to create intricate designs. These workshops, popular in Europe and the U.S., teach fans about historical architecture and sculpture basics. Participants learn how to recreate architectural pillars, Roman arches, and other features using Lego. These events attract Lego enthusiasts who are also history buffs.

What unusual Lego Classicism challenges exist for expert builders?

One challenge is creating curved structures using only rectangular bricks. Builders use unique “brick bending” techniques to achieve classical curves, often found in Roman or Greek-inspired builds. Another challenge is replicating detailed statues or busts. Builders work with limited colors and shapes, which makes recreating textures a real test of skill.

Has Lego Classicism influenced official Lego products?

Yes, Lego’s “Architecture” series was influenced by classic builds from fans. Sets like the Parthenon or Roman Colosseum originated as fan concepts celebrating classical architecture. Lego noticed the popularity of these builds and introduced sets specifically designed to appeal to adult fans interested in architecture.