What Is Art and Why Is It Important?

Art is not only an enjoyable pastime, it also helps humans to connect with one another and build healthy relationships. Art is also a way for humans to express themselves, which can be beneficial in the workplace and at home.

While many definitions of art exist, there is no single agreed upon meaning. Rather, the meaning of a piece of artwork is a subjective interpretation based on the artist’s intentions and what he or she was trying to communicate.

The purpose of a work of art may be to express emotions or ideas, explore and appreciate formal elements for their own sakes, and/or serve as mimesis (representation). At its most basic level, however, art is an internal appreciation for balance, harmony, and rhythm—a fundamental aspect of human existence beyond utility.

Art history is a broad field of study that encompasses all forms of visual expression. It is a discipline that has its roots in ancient times and covers an enormous breadth of time and space. Art historians examine works of art from all over the world, focusing on different eras and styles. This is an incredibly important field of study for those interested in the evolution of humanity and the development of cultural identity.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced art historian, there is always something new to learn about the arts. Oftentimes, a work of art will surprise you by being more complex than you expected or by resonating with you in unexpected ways. It’s this discovery that makes it so rewarding to look at, analyze and discuss a piece of art.

A critique is an oral or written discussion strategy that focuses on analyzing, describing and interpreting works of art. This is a common assignment in art history courses, where students are asked to use close observations of paintings, sculptures, drawings, posters and other works of visual art to construct a thoughtful analysis of the work and its implications for art, culture and society. Critiques are a great way to practice critical thinking skills, and they help hone the ability to make persuasive arguments in verbal and written form.

Oftentimes, art is categorized into groups or eras based on a variety of aesthetic criteria. This type of categorization tends to be exclusive and can impose an overly narrow view of the world’s art. For example, it can assume that the main story of art history is the Western art canon—the great works of Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Raphael—and ignore other important forms of visual expression such as Buddhist art or Chinese art from the Tang Dynasty.

For those interested in learning more about the diverse world of art, these books will provide a solid foundation for beginners to dive in and explore. With a wealth of information on classical art to contemporary art, these books will take learners through centuries of artistic advancements, from cave painting to Pop Art.

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