Interpreting Art

• We interpret art not exclusively (and not primarily) based the artist’s intention (whether expressed or inferred), but based on the text of the artwork and its effect on our experience.
• The greatest artists often break with established traditions and techniques to better express what they see and feel.
  
  SUGGESTED REFLECTION QUESTION
• How can we “read” and understand a work of art?

Evaluating Art

• While personal preferences (for color, cuisine, etc.) are relativist and cannot be argued, artistic tastes can be evaluated given several criteria.
• Although evaluating an art/musical work involves a subjective component, having sufficient contextual information about the work and the knowledge of artistic criteria can inform one’s judgment about the work.
  
  SUGGESTED REFLECTION QUESTION
• How does one determine criteria for evaluating an art/musical work?

Expressing Oneself Through Art

• Experimentation, practice, reflection, and constructive critique can help us develop our own unique artistic style.
• Artists draw from their personal experiences to express meaning through a powerful medium.

SUGGESTED REFLECTION QUESTIONS

• How can I express my ideas/ feelings through art?
• How can the elements of art and design principles help artists convey messages effectively?

Art as a Tool for Meaning-making

• A work of art can change our perception of a historical event and of any reality by creating for us a powerful personal experience of it.