Art is an important part of human existence. It’s a form of expression that allows us to express ideas and emotions that are impossible to convey in words. It is also an essential part of culture, as it allows people to share their values and beliefs with others.
However, it can be difficult to define art. There are many different theories about what constitutes art, and they often conflict with one another. Some believe that art is anything that evokes emotion, while others argue that only certain forms of expression are considered art. Regardless of the definition, there is no doubt that art is a powerful force that has helped shape civilizations throughout history.
AHTR surveyed our teacher community to find out what they thought about the question “What is art?”
One of the most common responses was that art is something that provokes an emotional response in the viewer. This could be a positive feeling like joy or happiness, or it could be a negative feeling like sadness or anger.
Another important function of art is that it educates. Art can teach us about a variety of subjects, from history to science to religion. It can also help us understand different cultures and traditions. Art can be a way to make these lessons more interesting and engaging for students, which is especially important in an age when it’s easy for children to become distracted by their phones.
Lastly, art can be used for ritualistic and symbolic functions. It can be used to represent a deity, to tell a story, or to explain a philosophy. In these cases, the purpose of the work is not necessarily to entertain or inspire the audience, but rather to convey a deeper meaning that is relevant to the culture that created it.
For example, a painting might be used to symbolize the life cycle of a plant or to tell the story of a battle. Similarly, religious paintings can be used for ceremonies to honor a particular deity.
Some teachers may feel that it is important to include art in their curriculum in order to foster cultural appreciation and awareness among their students. While this can be challenging in today’s fast-paced world, it is vital for the future of our global society. Moreover, it can be an effective tool to combat the intolerance of different cultures and racism that is prevalent in many countries around the world.
AHTR recommends that you try to incorporate art into your classroom as much as possible. This can be done by incorporating art history into your unit on different cultures and time periods. It can also be done by comparing and contrasting works by past and living artists to create higher student engagement. Most importantly, always encourage students to defend their answers and opinions on art. This will help them develop critical thinking skills and prepare them for college and career.