From 1912 to 1948, medals were awarded for artistic creations inspired by sport, alongside those for athletic prowess. This unique fusion of disciplines was the brainchild of Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of the modern Olympics, who envisioned the Games as a celebration of both physical and intellectual pursuits. Coubertin's vision for the modern Olympics extended far beyond athleticism. He believed in the holistic development of the individual, emphasizing the importance of both physical and intellectual pursuits. This philosophy stemmed from his deep admiration for the ancient Greek ideal of "kalokagathia," which represented the harmonious balance of body and mind.

In 1894, Coubertin's efforts culminated in the establishment of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and the first modern Olympic Games were held in Athens in 1896. The art competitions were introduced at the 1912 Stockholm Games, featuring five categories: architecture, literature, music, painting, and sculpture. A total of 146 artists were awarded Olympic medals for their artistic creations between 1912 and 1948.

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