St. George's Day 2019

St. George became a heroic figure of legend who was declared Patron Saint of England in 1348. Today’s Doodle by London-based guest artist Alice Pattullo celebrates St. George’s Day, which became an English feast day in 1415.

April 23 is also the day when the Order of the Garter, England’s highest honor of knighthood, is awarded by the English monarch with a medal bearing an image of St. George in battle with the mythical dragon. In fact, the Order of the Garter banners displayed in St. George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle were a source of inspiration for Alice’s final Doodle concept: "I love the simple applique graphics and the bold heraldic colours," she notes.

St. George’s valor has always held a special significance for the people of England. His flag (a red cross on a field of white) will fly all across the country today and many English people will wear a red rose on their lapel, inspired by the legend that a red bloom grew on the martyr’s grave. Traditional celebrations include parades, dancing, and gatherings at historic sites featuring hog roasts and all manner of medieval-themed merriment.

Happy St. George’s Day 2019!

Guest artist Q&A with Alice Pattullo

Q: Why was this topic meaningful to you personally?

A: As an English woman, it was interesting to have the opportunity to explore and research the history of St. George's Day which is England's 'Day'.

Q: What were your first thoughts when you were approached about the project?

A: I was excited to be asked. I visit Google daily to research for projects and imagery and love it when I come across an exciting and illustrative Doodle. I knew there would be some interesting history and tradition related to St. George's Day so I was keen to do some research to find out what.

Q: Did you draw inspiration from anything in particular for this Doodle?

A: After researching and exploring a couple of routes for the Doodle I chose to celebrate the Order of the Garter which was founded by Edward III in 1348. St. George was made patron of the Order of the Garter (as well as the Patron Saint of England) and the order was dedicated to the image of him and celebrates his chivalry. In St. George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle, all the garter banners of the order are displayed, hanging from the ceiling; I love the aesthetic of the simple applique graphics on them and the bold heraldic colours and chose to use these as a visual starting point to tell the original (and more synonymous) story of St. George and the Dragon.

Q: What message do you hope people take away from your Doodle?

A: I hope people enjoy this as a celebration of the handiwork and design of the flags and banners which are now essentially English Folk Art and also that they learn something new and inspiring by reading into the history of St George and the Order of The Garter.