When we take a step back and look at art’s role in our lives, it is clear that art is nothing short of essential. Art provides us with new perspectives, helps us understand our emotions, and allows us to explore different cultures. It can also encourage deep thinking, listening, and value-finding. In this piece, we’ll take a closer look at why art is so important in our lives.
Why art is more than just a form of expression
The value that art holds for society can’t be understated. Art plays an important role in our lives, whether it’s providing economic rewards or assisting with cultural traditions; one thing is certain- without art, we would not have any way to express ourselves creatively!
It can be found in every culture and time period because people need to express themselves through this form of media- whether its music or visual arts like paintings/sculptures etc., performance artists who change how we see our surroundings by conveying unspoken truths that are felt but never spoken aloud (or at least not yet).
Art makes you feel things when looking into an artist’s eyes as they create their masterpiece; these emotional responses might mirror your own life story told elsewhere – maybe even outside on canvas!
So, the next time you’re feeling bewildered or need a breather from your daily routine, take some time to admire the art around you. Who knows, art may transform your life.
What truly is art, and why do we create it?
Art is the expression or application of human creative talent and imagination, generally in an aesthetic medium such as painting or architecture, to generate artwork mainly admired for its beauty or emotional force.
Why do we create it? We create art because it is a part of who we are as humans. It is how we express our emotions and thoughts, and art helps creativity.
Does everyone have the innate ability to be creative?
Everyone can be creative, but not everyone chooses to express their creativity. Learning primary artistic skills and gaining creative experience assist us in developing art. We understand personal awareness from watching others and from creating ourselves.
The more we are exposed to art, the more likely we are to conceive, design, invent, and construct new ideas. Colour may assist youngsters in acquiring language, complicated thinking, and acute observation.
It unblocks old patterns or habits of thought, allowing for non-linear thinking. Creativity enables empathy and isn’t inherited or mysterious. Learning, honing, and mastering creativity is possible.
Tools may boost creativity, but cultivating your desire to come up with fresh ideas is more important.
The different forms of art and how they can be used to express ourselves
The art world is diverse and vast, encompassing everything from painting and sculpture to music and dance. And while some people may think they need to be talented or competent to create art, the truth is that anyone can engage in this form of self-expression.
Whether you’re drawing a picture, sculpting a piece of clay, or writing a story, the important thing is that you’re opening yourself up and sharing your innermost thoughts and feelings. In doing so, you’re not only increasing your own self-confidence but also giving others a window into your unique perspective.
So whatever form of art speaks to you, don’t be afraid to give it a try. You never realise what you’re competent in unless you attempt it.
Art That Has Made a Lasting Impact
Good art is also powerful and thought-provoking. It can make us ponder the big questions in life, and it can evoke an emotional response.
Some works of art are even considered controversial because they challenge our beliefs or push us outside our comfort zones.
The Fountain, a white urinal by Marcel Duchamp, is an excellent example. Though it may not be traditionally beautiful, it is undoubtedly moving and thought-provoking.
Visitors to the Convent of Santa Maria Delle Grazie in Milan, Italy, are often surprised by the number of famous works of art on display there.
In addition to The Fountain, other popular pieces include
- The Last Supper: “Guernica
- The Kiss
- Girl With a Pearl Earring
- The Birth of Venus
Each of these works is special in its own way, and they all have the power to move and inspire us.
NZ Artist with Serious Influence
Ralph Hotere was a pioneering New Zealand painter. His unconventional approach to art-making created excellent outcomes that changed the art world. His Black Paintings series started in 1968 and included vivid colour strips or plain black crosses on dark backgrounds.
Gerhard Heins. (2022, April 16). Ralph Hotere 4/7/2021 [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZKVbO3Np6AI
In 1984, he created Black Phoenix, a sculpture constructed from a burning fishing boat. His legacy continues to inspire global artists thanks to this outstanding work.
Yvonne Todd’s photography expedition “Hypertrophic” is discussed briefly in this video from McLeavey Gallery.
McLeavey Gallery. (2020, September 12). Hypertrophic by YvonneTodd [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0I9uPAMEHus
Yvonne Todd is a commercial and conceptual photographer. Her studio-shot photos challenge popular culture. Yvonne Todd’s glossy, bright, gawky photos mock civilisation.
Wall of Man is her best-known series. Through her perspective, we see a familiar-yet-strange, alluring-yet-off-putting world. Yvonne Todd’s bold and amusing images make us view the world differently.
Sofia Minson’s work is both beautiful and meaningful. She sees beauty in people and things that others miss. Her paintings aren’t static; they’re moving, breathing creations that move viewers.
A nice short clip that gives you an inside peek into Sofia Minson’s ideas and paintings.
Sofia Minson’s street art and portraits of Maori legends are unique. Her images will inspire and entertain audiences for years to come. Sofia, thanks for your gift.
Award-winning Maori Artist : Kura Te Waru Rewiri
Maori artist Kura Te Waru Rewiri has influenced New Zealand art. She blends traditional Maori symbols and practises with contemporary art. Ancient and modern elements help differentiate and celebrate her work in New Zealand and internationally.
It’s simple to understand why Kura Te Waru Rewiri is an award-winning and remarkable artist who keeps humble.
The cross often appears in her art with diverse meanings. Kura Te Waru Rewiri’s vibrant, layered paintings highlight her people’s political and social activities. This New Zealand Māori artist has presented her work internationally and continues to amaze and inspire.
Mahi Toi – (Māori Art)
The Maori term ‘Toi’ encompasses many meanings, from knowledge and skill to quality and foundation. It is also used to describe art that has had a profound impact. Toi is an essential part of Maori culture, and its influence can be seen in everything from traditional carving to contemporary painting.
When used concerning art, Mahi Toi denotes not only the technical ability of the artist but also the more profound spiritual power embedded in the work. Toi is a source of strength and pride for the Maori people, and this unique concept will continue in upcoming years to endure, influence and excite artists.
Mahi Toi, a Maori art, is more than meets the eye.
While the beautiful and intricate designs may seem like they are simply for aesthetic purposes, they actually communicate much deeper messages.
The patterns and symbols tell stories of the Maori people and their history, and they are also a way to pass down knowledge to future generations. Matauranga Maori, or Maori knowledge, is very important to the Maori people, and Mahi Toi is one of the ways that this knowledge is conveyed.
This style of art is prevalent not just in New Zealand, but all over the world.
- The Pacific Islands Culture has a long history of using art to communicate messages about mana and tapu, community and status, and genealogy.
- Native Americans and Canadians also have a long tradition of using artefacts to pacify deities, soothe angry gods wreaking havoc on nature, monitor new spirits, and chase away evil ones.
How art can help us understand the world and our place in it?
These are topics that philosophers have pondered for ages, and there is no simple solution. The most essential thing to remember is that art is not static. It is constantly changing, developing, and adapting to its surroundings.
One way that art may help us comprehend the world is by giving us a new viewpoint. Art may help us view the world through the eyes of others, as well as understand their culture and beliefs.
It may also help us comprehend our culture and ideas and perceive the world in new ways. Art may be a fantastic tool for learning about the world around us in this manner.
Art may also help us comprehend by displaying the cognitive processes at work in our own thoughts. This is something that contemporary art does more than historical art.
Arts Influence Our Sensory Perceptions
Artwork may help us see the world more clearly as it teaches us how we interpret existence and how our perceptions can twist the truth.
When we look at a landscape picture, for example, we notice the essential elements of the location and how the artist interprets it.
We may observe things that we would not have noticed if we had just looked at the scenery. Similarly, listening to music from another culture exposes us to new ideas and ways of thinking.
When we look at a picture, we witness how the artist interprets the landscape, not simply the scenery itself. We could notice things we wouldn’t see if we were merely looking at the surroundings. Listening to foreign music exposes us to new ideas and perspectives.
Art Isn’t Fact-Based But Gives Knowledge.
Whilst this is not often the scenario, it does not lessen the value of art. Both art and science add to our study of the cosmos. All forms of science fiction, literature, and art are thought experiments. They enable us to ponder the world and our position in it.
For decades, the Mona Lisa’s smile has sparked a debate: what is she thinking? Inquiring about art broadens our ideas and may even change our perspective. Is there a creator, or is everything arbitrary?
Art may also be used to teach science; artistic creativity is useful in technology. Finally, the skill may increase confidence and abstract thinking, leading to new ideas and conclusions.
The importance of art education in schools (benefits for students)
The arts have always been a vital part of human culture and expression, serving as a way to document and communicate our history, experiences, and values. In recent years, there has been an increased focus on the importance of arts education in schools.
The benefits of arts education are numerous, ranging from improved academic performance and cognitive skills to increased self-confidence and cultural awareness. Arts education also gives students a unique opportunity to express themselves creatively and explore their identities.
For these reasons, primary teachers must receive professional development to provide their students with a solid foundation in the arts. With the proper support, students can excel academically, emotionally, and socially through these skills.
Why is Art Education Vital?
- Creates well-rounded students
- Boosts academic performance in other subjects
- Reduces stress and improves mental health
- Increases self-esteem and confidence
Why we should support artists and their work
Art gallery in NZ https://www.twenty20.com/photos/91e7e18b-29a1-4e2b-afd2-2eef2ea99469/?utm_t20_channel=bl
Why is it important to support artists and their work? Artists enrich our culture and bring beauty into our lives. They deserve to earn a living for their work to continue to create art that we can all enjoy.
As a community, it is critical to support local artists since the art they create would lose its impact if local people did not help it. You keep all our creative freedom when you support the local artist community.
Work appreciation fosters meaningful dialogue and the realisation that there is more than one way to do anything by listening to diverse perspectives, ideas, and interpretations of the art.
Arts create genuine prosperity by improving academic achievement, strengthening the economy, and boosting tourism and our export sector. Art inspires creativity and invention and has several social benefits.
So next time you’re considering whether or not to buy that piece of art or attend that play, remember how important it is to support your local artist community!
- Support artists and their work to help maintain a strong and vibrant community
- Gain access to artworks that may not be available elsewhere
- Help artists continue producing beautiful and thought-provoking works of art
- Contribute to the appreciation and understanding of the world around us
How to get involved in the arts community yourself
There are many avenues to participate in the arts community. You can join an art workshop or group, which is a great way to learn about different art styles and meet other creatives you could try Waitakere Arts Group.
You can also visit art galleries and attend art exhibitions to see work by established and emerging artists.
Another great way to learn about art and connect with other creatives is to follow arty pages on social media, such as Facebook or LinkedIn.
If you want to take your involvement in the arts community one step further, you could start your own blog or YouTube channel dedicated to art and creativity.
Or, if you’re feeling really ambitious, you could even set up your own online shop selling art prints or other products.
Whatever direction you choose, becoming immersed in the arts community is a terrific opportunity to learn, develop as an artist, and meet fellow artists.
- Join a local art group or class
- Attend art exhibitions and performances
- Volunteer at a local gallery or museum
- There is no wrong approach to interacting in the arts community; simply go out and explore!
Why is art ageless and timeless?
Art is everlasting and infinite since it is a reflection of our humanity. It is something that we can all relate to, no matter what our age or background.
- Art is a way to connect with our past and understand our present
- Photography, sculpture, literature, and film are all everlasting art forms
- Experience emotions that are transcendent and timeless
- Transcend generational gaps and speak to everyone
- Appreciate the creativity and spiritual nature of art
Parting Words on the Importance of Art in Our Lives
Buildings, movies, and books are all places where art may be found. Why art is important in our life is a tricky subject to solve, but you will have determined the worth of art from your viewpoint after reading this article.
Artworks transcend speech and beyond speech. It expresses stories and emotions more accurately than words. Art is essential because it can give you a sense of happiness and hope, whether that be through painting or performance.
Thank you for reading.
Sources of Information
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Creative New Zealand. (n.d.). Creative New Zealand. Retrieved July 2, 2022, from https://www.creativenz.govt.nz/development-and-resources/community-arts-toolkit
Mahi Toi. (n.d.). Ngati Whatua Orakei Whai Rawa.Com. Retrieved July 2, 2022, from https://www.ngatiwhatuaorakeiwhairawa.com/land-property/te-toangaroa/mahi-toi/
University of Illinois Press. (1966). The Cultural Importance of the Arts on JSTOR. Https://Www.Jstor.Org/. Retrieved July 2, 2022, from https://www.jstor.org/stable/3331349
Creatives in Schools. (2022, June 17). Education in New Zealand. Retrieved July 2, 2022, from https://www.education.govt.nz/our-work/publications/budget-2019/creatives-in-schools/
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