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Why teach art?
Why teach art?

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1. Why Teach Art?

Acquisition of sight precedes language. In a tangible sense visual engagement with the world situates us and defines who we are.

Consider the three following non-linguistic signs.

Figure 1
Figure 1 Three non linguistic signs

Respectively, these signify a commercial brand, a road sign and a major piece of commemorative architecture (and tourist attraction!). Even while respecting varying cultural norms it might be argued that these are immediately recognisable cultural icons. All three are highly visible cultural products, which reflect human agency and creativity.

In so far as the category of art is an open concept all three might make a claim for inclusion. The point being made is simply that art (the process and methods involved in its making) and art history (broadly the study of its development and contexts) are forms of cultural enquiry. In this sense they have profound significance and meaning for all of us.

Now read ‘Art and Lifelong Learning’ by Tim Jones.

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