Introduction to Art – JSS1 Cultural & Creative Arts Lesson Note (First Term)

Art is a wide human activity involving creative and imaginative skills. It is the expression of inner feelings or ideas about things, people, and the environment. Art affects almost every aspect of human life.

Behavioural objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

• define art in different ways
• state the origin of the word “art” and how early humans made art
• list the characteristics of art
• distinguish between visual and non-visual art and give examples of each
• state the importance of art to society
• name some careers in art

What is art?

Art can be defined in several ways:

• Art is a means of self-expression of inner feelings or ideas about things, people, and the environment
• Art means skilfully using materials to produce things for human use and pleasure
• Art is a universal language of expression
• Art is the skill of doing something which is not taught by nature
• Art is the creative use of imagination to produce objects of beauty

What is the origin of art?

The word “Art” originated from the Latin word “ARTI” which means “to do well” or “skill”.

Early art activities

Art activities can be traced back to early humans who:

• Drew on cave walls
• Made marks on rock surfaces
• Created images on wood
• Painted on animal hides

Early art techniques

• Scratching
• Engraving
• Incised drawing (graffiti)
• Painting with earth colours (red, yellow, black, white) mixed with animal fat

What is the nature of art?

Art has several characteristics:

• It is creative: it involves making something new
• It is expressive: it communicates feelings and ideas
• It is aesthetic: it is concerned with beauty
• It requires skill: it needs practice and technique
• It is universal: it is found in all cultures
• It is imaginative: it goes beyond ordinary thinking

What are the branches of art?

Art is broadly divided into two main categories:

1. Visual art: these are aspects of art whose products are visible (can be seen and touched)
2. Non-visual art: these are aspects of art whose products cannot be seen with the naked eye

Visual art categories

Fine art

Fine art is created primarily for aesthetic purposes and self-satisfaction. The branches include:

• Drawing: creating images with lines and marks
• Painting: applying colours to surfaces
• Sculpture: creating three-dimensional forms
• Architecture: designing buildings and structures

Applied art (industrial art)

Applied art combines aesthetic design with functional purpose. The branches include:

• Graphics: visual communication design
• Textiles: fabric and fibre arts
• Ceramics: pottery and clay work
• Photography: capturing images with cameras
• Interior design: arranging indoor spaces
• Furniture design: creating functional seating and tables
• Industrial design: designing manufactured products

Non-visual art categories

Performing art

Performing arts are art forms that use the artist’s body, face, and presence. These include:

• Music: organised sound and rhythm
• Drama: theatrical performances
• Dance: movement to rhythm

Literary art

Literary arts are art forms involving written or spoken words. These include:

• Literature: novels, short stories
• Poetry: rhythmic and expressive writing
• Folklore: traditional stories and legends
• Journalism: news and feature writing

Why is art important?

Art serves many functions and has many values for society.

Means of expression

• Expressing emotions and feelings
• Communicating ideas without words
• Showing personal experiences

Cultural preservation

• Retaining traditional designs
• Promoting cultural identity
• Recording historical events

Aesthetic function

• Decorating our environment
• Creating beauty in everyday life
• Enhancing visual appeal

Educational purpose

• Teaching about history and culture
• Developing observation skills
• Encouraging critical thinking

Economic value

• Source of income for artists
• Creating employment opportunities
• Attracting tourism

Social function

• Bringing communities together
• Facilitating communication
• Building social awareness

Therapeutic benefits

• Providing relaxation and recreation
• Reducing stress
• Promoting mental health

Practical applications

• Creating functional objects
• Solving design problems
• Improving daily life

What materials are used in art?

Artists use various materials including:

• Natural materials (wood, stone, clay)
• Manufactured materials (paper, canvas, metal)
• Found objects (recycled items)
• Digital media (computers, cameras)
• Traditional media (paint, pencils, charcoal)

Who is an artist?

An artist is someone who:

• Creates works of art
• Has developed artistic skills
• Expresses ideas through art
• Contributes to cultural development
• May work professionally or as a hobby

What careers are there in art?

Art offers many career opportunities:

• Professional artist
• Art teacher
• Graphic designer
• Museum curator
• Art therapist
• Fashion designer
• Photographer
• Architect
• Illustrator
• Art critic

What is the impact of art on society?

Art influences society by:

• Shaping cultural values
• Recording historical events
• Inspiring social change
• Creating economic opportunities
• Building community identity
• Enhancing quality of life

Evaluation

1. Define art in your own words.
2. State three characteristics of art.
3. What is the difference between visual art and non-visual art?
4. Name two branches of fine art and two branches of applied art.
5. Mention three ways in which art is important to society.

Assignment

1. List four early art techniques used by early humans.
2. Name the two types of non-visual art and give two examples of each.
3. List five careers in art.