ARTS

Although we commonly use terms such as "martial arts" or "liberal arts", which imply teaching, or passing on a body of study, when we use the term "art" or "the arts" by itself we usually refer to some rendering of nature or imagination which comes to us through our senses. The principle senses through which we appreciate art are sight and sound.

Painting, drawing and sculpture are three examples of visual arts. That is, we receive them primarily by sight. Music, on the other hand, is received primarily through the sense of hearing. After these obvious examples, the subject becomes more complex. When is something an art, when a craft? At bottom level, anything, which the creator considers an art, may be so designated, though not all people may agree. There appears to be some level of discernment related to taste and to a perceived level of quality.

What about literature or the theater, for instance? There is general agreement that Shakespeare's work, as literature or playwriting, is art. Would there be such general agreement regarding television sitcoms or romance novels? And what of acting? It is received both through sight and sound and can be an inspiring vehicle for expression. But actors themselves often refer to it as a craft, because it is a conveyor of someone else's (the writer's) vision - it is not a creation itself. In the case of crafts such as quilting or basket weaving is appears that when an article rises to a sufficient level of expertise it is considered to be a piece of art.

It is said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. It seems that the same may be said of the arts.

Art Websites

National Endowment for the Arts. 

The National Endowment for the Arts is a public agency dedicated to supporting excellence in the arts, both new and established; bringing the arts to all Americans; and providing leadership in arts education. Established by Congress in 1965 as an independent agency of the federal government, the Endowment is the nation's largest annual funder of the arts, bringing great art to all 50 states, including rural areas, inner cities, and military bases.

Contemporary Arts

Discover over 100,000 works of contemporary art. Search by medium, subject matter, price and theme... research over 200,000 works by over 22,000 masters in the in depth art history section.

Yale University Art Gallery

The mission of the Yale University Art Gallery is to encourage appreciation and understanding of art and its role in society through direct engagement with original works of art.

Msn Art Groups

Genuine Art Movement Group

The Yates Collection Group

Yahoo Art Groups