Why Study Art History?

0
137

Why Study Art History?  

An understanding of the history of art allows us to appreciate the development of art from its earliest forms to the present day. Art history is an expansive field and provides insight into past civilizations, contemporary art forms, and cultural movements and styles. It is a field which holds the potential to affect the way people view the present, and even the way they shape their own futures. Here are some compelling reasons why one should study art history.

  1. Appreciation of the Arts

Art history helps to cultivate an appreciation of creative expression by viewing and analyzing a broad range of artwork. Through the study of art and its changing forms, one can gain an understanding of the intimate and powerful relationship between art and its context. A deeper understanding of the visual arts provides a greater appreciation of different shapes, colors, and textures as they are used in artwork. This knowledge can be used to locate and view artworks personally.

  1. Understand the Impact of Art

Studying art history provides an understanding of how art has influenced society, politics, and culture throughout history. Throughout the centuries, art has been used to celebrate the experiences of individuals and groups, communicate messages, and spark dialogue about topics such as war, poverty, and social reform. To understand about how art plays a role in the development and experiences of person and culture, one must study art history.

  1. Gaining a Range of Skills

Studying art history is not just about evaluating artwork, but also developing valuable skill sets that can be used both in and out of the classroom. Studying art history involves research, analysis, critical thinking, and communication, which are all important skills that can be utilized both inside and outside the academic environment. Art historians must also learn to recognize and evaluate a large array of art styles and periods, while being able to communicate their findings in both a written and oral format.

  1. Journey Through Time

Studying art history is often a journey through time as it allows you to dive deep into the politics, society, and culture of a period in history. Students of art history can become immersed in the culture of the past, understanding how and why certain artworks were created and used within certain societies. Art history is the study of the past which is present in the present.

  1. Connection to Other Subjects

By studying art, you can become better connected to other disciplines as well. Art is present in language, literature, music, science as well as other areas. Although art has been traditionally divided from the study of other fields, art history provides a link between its contemporaries and how each influences the other.

  1. Open Career Possibilities

Studying art history provides a vast range of career possibilities. With an understanding of creative expression and its influence on society and culture, an art historian can pursue a wide variety of career paths. Art historians can use their knowledge to become professors, critics, curators, art dealers or restorers, or even work in the entertainment industry.

  1. Deepen Interpersonal Connections

The beauty of art history is that it can increase your understanding of others and cultures—which can help you develop more meaningful relationships with the people around you. Studying art history can provide a more informed view of the world, allowing for a better appreciation for different cultures. By understanding the artwork of different cultures and societies, you can gain a better understanding of their values and practices.

Studying art history can provide a unique understanding of the past while exploring its effect on the present. It is a field that allows you to open up to a range of different careers, provide insight into different cultures, and gain valuable skills that can be used in many different areas. Art history is an expansive field and those who study it can develop an appreciation for creative expression, empowering them to make an impact both in their personal and professional lives.

Previous articleThe Story Behind Raphael’s Masterpiece ‘The School of Athens’
Next articleWhat Makes Love So Addictive? What Brain Studies Reveal