05 November, 2013

Anthropology, 210 (Is Art a Universal Language?)

Art is a form of expression that transcends above the differences between humanity and focuses on the similarities. Diego Rivera, an artist of the 20th century, said “art is the universal language and it belongs to all mankind.” As with writing, art is a form of symbolism. It is a physical manifestation of a myriad of social values of a society as envisioned by an individual or even a group. A project is created to show a point of view and illicit a reaction. The message can be positive or negative, broad or specific, local or global. Artists create their works with an audience in mind, and audiences respond to these works as if the works were addressed to them. (Anthro) 

 Art is a method of communication mankind has always employed, beginning with simple representation of daily life and outlines of hand prints on cave walls to modern graffiti commenting on social issues. Drawing and painting aren't the only everlasting artistic expression, from tribes dancing for the clouds to bring rain to ballet performances depicting entire lifetimes. Art is an important tool to use as a healthy outlet for emotional expression as well as a method of reinforcing central values of a culture. (Anthro)

Lavenda, Robert H., and Emily A. Schultz. "Primates of the Miocene." Anthropology: What Does It Mean to Be Human? New York: Oxford UP, 2013. N. 285-289. Print. 

No comments:

Post a Comment