Why do Humans Make Art? - History & Value

Introduction

Art is a human creation that has been present throughout history. Its origins can be traced back to prehistoric times, with the earliest known examples being cave paintings. The reasons why humans make art are varied and complex, with some scholars believing that it is a form of self-expression, while others argue that it serves a functional purpose. Despite this debate, art has been valued throughout history for its ability to evoke emotion and communicate ideas

Humans and Art

• The creation of art is an ancient and universal human behaviour dating back to the earliest civilizations.

• The earliest forms of art were likely created for religious or ceremonial purposes.

• Art has since taken on many different functions and meanings, such as self-expression, storytelling, communication, therapy, and more.

• Art making has been also seen as an integral part of social and cultural identity

• The act of creating art can also be seen as an innate human instinct, similar to other fundamental human behaviours such as music, language and dance.

Europe France Paris Stylish Louvre Museum Interior Mona Lisa Painting Leonardo Da Vinci Mobile Phones Classical French Heritage Building Landmark.

Art is valuable for Society

• It can serve as a reflection of the society's values and beliefs, highlighting social, cultural and political aspects of the time.

• Public art can play an important role in urban development and creating a sense of place, it can also be used to beautify and revitalize public spaces.

• In addition to its aesthetic value, art also has economic and educational value, as it can attract tourism and stimulate cultural industries.

• Art education has been shown to improve critical thinking, problem solving, and creativity, fostering personal and social development.

• Art can also be a means of creating shared experiences, promoting dialogue and fostering cultural understanding.

Art Tells us about Ourselves

Art can reveal a lot about the culture, society, and time period in which it was created. It can serve as a window into the past, providing insight into the beliefs, values, and daily lives of people from different eras. It can also tell us about the artist's personal experiences, emotions, and perspectives, and can serve as a tool for self-expression and self-exploration.

Art can give us a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us by providing a different perspective, challenging assumptions, and opening up new ways of thinking. It can also be used to explore and express universal human experiences such as love, loss, joy, and sorrow.

"Guernica," by Pablo Picasso, reflects the artist's political and social views

Value of Art

Art has been valued for centuries, often serving as a status symbol for the wealthy and powerful, and it can have both financial and intrinsic value. The financial value of art is often determined by its rarity, historical importance, condition, and demand among collectors. Some artworks have sold for millions of dollars and are considered priceless.

The intrinsic value of art is more subjective and can be different for different people. It can be based on aesthetic appeal, historical significance, cultural value, or personal meaning. The value of art can change over time and be affected by various factors such as market trends, economic conditions, and historical events.

Art as a Mirror to the Society

• Art often reflects the society and culture in which it was created, highlighting issues, values, beliefs, and social norms.

• It can serve as a historical document, providing insight into the past, and helping us understand how society has changed over time.

• Public art can also serve as a mirror to the society and can be used to shape public spaces and influence public opinion, it can be used to convey political, social and cultural messages, and to create a sense of community.

• Some artworks can also be seen as a criticism or satire of the society and can function as a reflection of the artist's vision and hopes for society.

Art as a reflection of thoughts

Art can serve as a form of self-expression for the artist, reflecting their emotions, beliefs, and thoughts. It can also reflect the artist's ideas about the world and their place in it. Some artworks are created to communicate a particular message or idea, or to convey a specific emotion or feeling.

The process of creating art can also be seen as a form of self-discovery and self-expression, helping the artist understand and express their innermost thoughts and feelings. In some cases, artwork can serve as a form of personal catharsis for the artist, helping them process and come to terms with difficult emotions or experiences. Some artworks also serve as a means of exploring the human condition and the complexities of the human experience.

Aboriginal dot painting artwork.Before Indigenous Australian art was ever put onto canvas the Aboriginal people would smooth over the soil to draw sacred ceremony designs

Conclusion

In conclusion, art plays a crucial role in human society. It serves as a valuable tool for self-expression and reflection, allowing us to understand and communicate our thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Art also serves as a mirror for society, reflecting the cultural, social, and political values of a given time period. Through the creation and consumption of art, we are able to gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

FAQs

Q1. Why do humans create art?

Ans. Humans create art for a variety of reasons, including as a form of self-expression, storytelling, communication, social cohesion, cultural identity, and therapy. The exact reasons why an individual artist creates a particular work can vary greatly and may include a combination of these or other motivations.

Q2. What is the value of art?

Ans. The value of art can be subjective and can vary greatly depending on who is assessing it. Art can have both financial value, as some artworks have sold for millions of dollars, and intrinsic value, such as its aesthetic appeal, historical significance, cultural value, or personal meaning.

Q3. How does art reflect society and culture?

Ans. Art often reflects the society and culture in which it was created, highlighting issues, values, and beliefs. It can serve as a historical document, providing insight into the past, and it can also serve as a catalyst for social change by raising awareness and sparking discussions about important issues. Public art can also serve as a mirror for society and can be used to shape public spaces and influence public opinion. Additionally, the artist's personal experiences and observations also influence their