Whether it is paintings, sculptures, or architecture, art has the power to communicate ideas and emotions. It has the ability to move us, and it can open our minds to new worlds. Art is more than just a visual representation of reality, however; it is also a powerful tool for expressing cultural values and traditions to both local and foreign audiences.
Art history is the study of art from around the globe and throughout time. This is a great subject to teach if you want your students to learn about how culture influences art, and it can also be used as a springboard for other subjects like science and social studies. The best part about studying art is that it is universally accessible and a powerful tool for learning about different cultures from around the world.
The history of art encompasses a broad spectrum of topics, from the development of the first alphabets to modern-day pop culture. The topic is so vast, in fact, that many teachers find it difficult to incorporate into their curriculum. To help, this collection of Art History Made Fun lessons includes a wide variety of activities that can be used to teach students about the world’s diverse art culture.
How is art defined? The definition of art is constantly changing. Some argue that art is simply any creation or activity that is intentionally designed to appeal to the senses or emotion. Others use a more narrow definition, focusing on works that are considered to be beautiful. Still others believe that a full and proper understanding of the meaning of art requires an exploration of a philosophical branch known as aesthetics.
Until recently, the concept of art was very much an abstract one. Ancient civilizations used art to tell stories, decorate utilitarian objects, and convey religious and cultural beliefs. In some cases, it was even used as a form of writing; the first alphabets were stringed together to create images and words, such as Egyptian hieroglyphics or Japanese kanji.
From the 18th century on, art began to focus more and more on depicting everyday people and places. The rise of the era of Realism brought a shift toward the portrayal of realistic, naturalistic scenes. Impressionism emerged after Realism, bringing in a more stylized and experimental approach to artistic creation.
Art is now used to promote tolerance of different cultures and to educate foreigners about the unique ways of life in other parts of the world. It is also used to fight against racial segregation, globalization, and other forms of unjust societal discrimination.