As we prepare for our whole school exploration of Art and Artists, I have been reflecting on what counts as art.  The Encarta® World English Dictionary on my computer offers the following definitions at the top of their list.

art (n)
1.      the creation of beautiful or thought-provoking works, for example, in painting,
         music, or writing
2.      beautiful or thought-provoking works produced through creative activity
3.      a branch or category of art, especially one of the visual arts
4.      the skill and technique involved in producing visual representations

(npl) arts
1.      the activities enjoyed for the beauty they create or the way they present ideas, for
         example, painting, music, and literature

Though each of these definitions helps shape the concept of art, each culture, each generation, and each person may view creativity, beauty, thought, and enjoyment through a unique lens.  Sensitivity to such differences develops by focusing dialogue on descriptions of a piece’s composition or an artist’s technique, rather than using judgmental terms.  Reflecting on an artist’s intentions and feelings, as well as the feelings and thoughts aroused in the viewer, fosters the important skill of taking alternate perspectives.

As we consider ways to encourage art appreciation through the upcoming unit, we can all begin to think about artists, artwork, and their meaning in our lives.  We can start by looking anew at the art in the places where we live and work.

In preparation for the Art & Artists unit, please share your family’s art favorites with us.  If you have access to a digital camera, please take a photograph of one or two of the pieces in your home or neighborhood that you especially enjoy.  Annotate the picture with your name and a brief description of its significance to you.  We’ll collect these to share with our school community during the unit.  We look forward to being artists together at the Family Festival on Thursday, February 28th.

May you and your family find new ways to be creative in 2008!