What is Art

What is Art?

Introductory Essay: What Makes “Art” Art? The text of this essay is to be at least 250 words.

This art essay is an introductory survey for me. There are no right and wrong answers, but please think about the question seriously and make sure you address each point. I would like an idea of what you think at the beginning of the course, before what we will learn over the next five weeks. Consider the following points:

1) What do you think of as art? Try to explain what makes it art. If you do not know what you think or have never considered this before, a good starting place may be to look through your textbook and examine which pieces you respond to and why. Select a piece to use as an example either in the text or on an online gallery and think about what qualities you are looking for when you select something to hang on your wall. Is there a particular period that you like most?

2) What do you respond to in a work of art? Is it the way it looks, the way it makes you feel, or the ideas it brings to mind?

Academic Artisan

APA

Answer

“Art” is often considered a reflection of human creativity, emotion, and thought, but its definition can vary widely depending on personal, cultural, or historical perspectives. At its core, art can be anything that evokes an emotional response, challenges perception, or represents an artist’s vision or commentary on the world. The process of creation—whether through painting, sculpture, music, or even performance—transforms materials or ideas into something more profound and expressive.

One way to think about what makes something “art” is through its intentionality and its capacity to communicate. For example, a piece of abstract painting might not resemble anything from the physical world, but it still conveys mood or energy through color, shape, and texture. In this way, art becomes a language of its own. An example that stands out for me is Claude Monet’s Water Lilies. The soft brushstrokes and light capture a peaceful, dreamlike quality that draws me into a sense of tranquility and beauty. The piece doesn’t just depict flowers—it captures a feeling of serenity that transcends the subject matter.

When I respond to a work of art, it’s usually based on the emotional reaction it elicits. I’m drawn to pieces that challenge my understanding or evoke a strong mood. Sometimes, it’s the sheer aesthetics—the composition, the use of color, or the style—that grabs my attention. At other times, it’s the deeper message or the artist’s intent that resonates with me, making me think about themes like society, nature, or identity. I’m particularly fascinated by the Impressionist period, as it focuses on capturing fleeting moments and the subjective experience of light and atmosphere.

In sum, what makes art “art” for me is its ability to evoke feelings, spark thoughts, and serve as a medium of expression that transcends simple representation. It’s this blend of…