1. The Power of the Arts The Purposes and Lessons of Art
Created by:
Laura Dedic
Madison Central High School

2. The Power of the Arts Art fulfills a variety of purposes.
“Great art reveals the spirit of the age that produced it.” – Lewis & Lewis, The Power of Art
Studying the arts can teach us many lessons.

3. Reasons for Creating Art
Ceremonial
Artistic Expression
Narrative
Functional / Utilitarian
Persuasive

4. Reasons for Creating Art
1. Ceremonial Reasons
Ritual
Celebration
Artworks created to support worship
Express spiritual beliefs

5. Reasons for Creating Art
Artistic Expression
Art expresses and communicates emotions
Expresses ideas
Self expression
To decorate or beautify objects

6. Reasons for Creating Art
Narrative – to tell a story
Describe and illustrate experiences
Communicate information
Document important or historical events

7. Reasons for Creating Art
4. Functionality
A.K.A. utilitarian
Art objects used in everyday life
Pottery
Quilts
Baskets
And many more…

8. Reasons for Creating Art
Persuasive
Artworks that promote ideas, philosophies, or products
Advertising
Marketing
Propaganda
Ideology, etc.

9. Propaganda

10. Goal for Humanities Class
“Whatever the type of art in question, the first step in learning to appreciate art is simply learning to look and/or listen.”
Lewis & Lewis, The Power of Art

11. Kentucky Core Content 4.1 AH-HS-3.4.1
Students will explain how art fulfills a variety of purposes.