Art is an expressive form of expression in which creativity, skill and imagination are employed to convey meaning. It may be uplifting, depressing, beautiful or painful.
Art has evolved throughout history and culture. This article focuses on the visual arts, though other fields such as aural-music and written word literature share similar issues and philosophical foundations.
Definition
A work of art in the visual arts refers to a physical two- or three-dimensional object that serves an aesthetic function. These works may be seen within their broader artistic movement or era, genre, aesthetic convention, culture, regional-national distinction or within an artist’s “body of work” or oeuvre.
In this instance, the term is employed by museum and cultural heritage curators, the public at large, art patrons/private collectors and galleries. A work of art is defined as a creative endeavor that elicits positive aesthetic emotion or provides intellectual stimulation.
Meaning
Art is personal to its creator and can have profound meaning to those who view it, whether that be religious significance, ceremonial value, social commentary, storytelling, self-expression or beauty and emotion.
Interpretation of a work of art can be an intricate process that takes time to fully develop. What appears to be one thing upon first inspection may take on different meanings as we gain more insight into the artist and culture in which it was created.
Purpose
Art is an incredibly complex and multifaceted concept. Yet many people use art to connect with others and make sense of the world around them.
Art has long been an influential force in social change. It has been used to combat racism and intolerance, as well as promote cultural appreciation.
Art can also be used to promote religious teachings, enabling followers to make connections between different faiths. This helps bridge the cultural gap and foster stronger connections between communities.
Techniques
Artists employ a range of techniques to craft works of art. Each has its own distinct advantages that may influence how viewers interpret the artwork.
Techniques can include color, value, texture, shape and form to draw attention to certain elements in an artwork.
Focusing on a particular point in the work can be an effective way to convey a message and make it stand out. Additionally, this approach may present viewers with challenges they don’t expect.
Styles
Style is the visual expression of an artist’s vision, using form, color, and composition to communicate that visual message. It may also refer to certain principles about form and appearance that are shared within a particular culture or era.
Art styles differ according to movement, but generally share certain visual traits like color and composition. These commonalities enable us to recognize a work as belonging to one of many movements that have emerged over time.
Value
Artwork’s value is determined by its seven elements – line, shape, form, space, texture and color. A color’s value lies in its light and dark variations which create shadows, highlights and contrasts.
In 1907, Denman Ross, an American painter, introduced a value scale that ranges from lightest to darkest shade. This scale remains used today to describe the subtle variations between different colors.
The value of a work of art can be determined by several factors, including its historical significance as well as financial, social and political contexts.
Taxes
Taxes are compulsory payments made to local, state and federal governments that support public goods and services for the entire community.
Taxes can range from income taxes and property assessments, to sales and value-added duties. Some are collected at the time of a transaction, while others have an established recurring schedule for collection.
