INTRODUCTION

The word ‘Art’, etymologically originates from the Latin word ‘ars’ which means, skill or
craft. The first known use of the word art comes from 13th-century manuscripts. How-
ever, this term has reflected countless meanings since it’s existence.
The question of what is art has been debated for centuries among philosophers.
What is art? is the most basic question in the philosophy of aesthetics, which
really means, how do we determine what is defined as art?
Over the time, philosophers like Plato, Aristotle, Socrates and Kant, among
others also questioned the meaning of art. Plato first developed the idea of art as
‘mimesis of mimesis,’ which means in Greek, copying or imitation, thus implying that
representation or replication of something that is beautiful or meaningful is the primary
definition of art.
The oldest documented forms of art are visual arts, which include creation of
images or objects through the medium of painting, sculpture, printmaking,
photography, and other visual media. But in the Western culture, from the 11th century
until the end of the 17th century, the definition of art was anything done with skill as the
result of knowledge and practice. Music, theatre, film, dance, and other performing arts,
as well as literature and other media such as interactive media, are included in a
broader definition of art. Until the 17th century, art was referred to any skill or mastery
and was not differentiated from crafts or sciences.
During the Middle Ages, visual arts such as painting or sculpture were, in fact,
seen as crafts and not ‘art’ as we know it today. The paintings were not signed, and the
artist did not have any fame as he was merely a tool to realise a commissioned artwork.
However, at a certain point in history, around 1300-1400, the craftsmen became aware
of their extraordinary talent and personal innovations and contribution to the history of
their practice. A landmark was the Arnolfini portrait by Jan Van Eyck, who signed ‘Van
Eyck was here’ above the mirror in the background, making a statement as an artist.
With the Renaissance in Italy, the masters became true artists instead of mere crafts-
men as the “designo interno” (the artist’s idea, the image in his mind) became increas-
ingly important.
Leo Tolstoy, the renowned Russian writer and philosopher, had strong and influ-
ential views on art, which he expressed in his essay titled "What Is Art?" published in
1897. In this work, Tolstoy presented a distinctive perspective on the purpose and sig-
nificance of art. He presented the idea that art is a expression of emotion. Benedetto
Croce, an Italian philosopher and aesthetician, also had significant contributions to the
philosophy of art. One of his most notable works on aesthetics is “Aesthetic”, first pub-
lished in 1902. His views say that art is an expression of imagination.
Thus today, it is accepted unanimously that art is an outer expression of a per-
son’s inner feelings, emotions and imaginations. We understand art as a collection of
disciplines which produce artworks that are compelled by a personal drive and convey a
message, mood, or symbolism for the perceiver to interpret. It is an intricate tapestry
woven with threads of creativity, symbolism, and cultural resonance, offering a nuanced
lens through which we can explore the complexity of the human experience. Art tran-
scends the boundaries of time and space as it provides us with a crucial glimpse into
history as a means through which we can understand the life of the humans that came
before us. It provides a doorway into galaxies of possibility for expression and a valu-
able platform for political and social commentary. In its myriad forms, art, encapsulates
human creativity, emotion, and ingenuity. It is essential to society as it stimulates cre-
ativity, reflects culture, fosters empathy, provokes thought, and offers a medium for ex-
pression. It enhances society’s intellectual and emotional understanding of the world.

FORMS OF ART
Over the centuries, the perception of art evolved as a reflection of human creativity and
expression, and was broadly categorised into seven distinct forms. These seven forms
of art include-Painting, Sculpture, Literature, Architecture, Theatre, Film, and Music. The
foundations of these categories were laid through the diverse cultural and historical de-
velopment of societies around the world.

Painting:
Painting, being perhaps one of the most important art forms, has been a com-
pelling force throughout history. It involves application of pigments or other mediums to
a two-dimensional surface, which are mostly stretched linen, cotton canvas or paper.
Painting includes several elements such as colour, composition, texture, form and tech-
nique, which collectively contribute to the creation of visually appealing and meaningful
artworks,
The purpose of painting is diverse, ranging from personal expression and com-
munication of emotions to storytelling, exploration of color and form, and social or politi-
cal commentary. Throughout history, painting has taken on various styles and forms,
from realistic representations to abstract or conceptual expressions. It is a fundamental
and versatile medium in the world of visual arts, providing artists with a powerful means
of conveying ideas, perspectives, and aesthetics.
The earliest known paintings date back to prehistoric cave art, such as those in
Lascaux, France, depiction scenes of daily life. In the ancient Egyptian and
Mesopotamian civilisations painting served as a source to propagate religious narra-
tives. In the Greek and Roman Empires, artists focused on realistic representation, with
an emphasis on proportion and balance. The Renaissance witnessed a revival of classi-
cal art, introducing innovations like linear perspective and producing masterpieces by
iconic artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. Subsequent periods, like the
Baroque and Rococo, embraced dramatic compositions and intense emotions. The 19th
century brought movements like Romanticism and Realism, while the 20th century saw
the rise of avant-garde styles like Cubism and Abstract Expressionism. In the contem-
porary era, painting continues to evolve, encompassing diverse styles from traditional to
digital, reflecting the dynamic nature of artistic creation across cultures and time peri-
ods.

Sculpture
Sculpture is the second central pillar of visual arts, with which visual art is no
longer limited to a two dimensional surface of paintings. Sculpture is an art form that in-
volves creating three-dimensional objects and forms, typically by carving, modeling, or
assembling materials such as stone, wood, metal, clay, or marble. With the arrival of
new technologies, the materials used for this art form has extended to 3D printing, plexi-
glass, fiberglass, steel, epoxy, or electronic devices. Sculptors manipulate such materi-
als to shape space, explore form, and convey ideas or emotions.
 The history of sculpture unfolds across diverse cultures and time periods. In pre-
historic times, early humans fashioned small sculptures from materials like bone and
ivory. In ancient Egypt, sculptures played a crucial role in religious rituals and commem-
orated significant figures, as seen in iconic works like the Sphinx. Ancient Greece and
Rome elevated sculpture to new heights, with the Greeks emphasizing idealized beauty
in statues like the Kouros and Kore, while the Romans focused on historical and political
figures. The Renaissance marked a revival of classical influences, with artists such as
Michelangelo and Donatello creating masterpieces that showcased anatomical preci-
sion and emotional depth. The Baroque and Rococo periods brought a sense of drama
and ornamentation to sculpture, exemplified by Gian Lorenzo Bernini's dynamic works.
The 19th century saw a shift towards Romantic and Realist styles, with Auguste Rodin's
"The Thinker" becoming an iconic representation of this era.
As art moved into the 20th century, sculpture experienced radical transforma-
tions, with modern and contemporary artists departing from traditional forms. It moved
towards abstraction, incorporating new materials and exploring unconventional ideas.
Today, sculpture continues to be a dynamic and evolving art form, reflecting the diver-
sity and innovation present in the broader field of visual arts.

Literature
Literature as an art form consists of the art of words or written work. The art of literature
is a form of creative expression that utilizes written language to convey ideas, emotions,
and stories. It encompasses a wide range of genres, styles, and forms, including novels,
short stories, poems, plays, essays, and more.
The art of literature allows writers to explore the complexities of the human experience,
tackling universal themes and offering unique perspectives. Readers, in turn, engage
with literature on a personal and intellectual level, finding meaning, inspiration, and a
deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. Whether through clas-
sic works or contemporary creations, the art of literature continues to be a powerful and
enduring form of human expression.
The history of literature runs alongside that of visual arts, having it’s earliest origins in
the Egyptian and Mesopotamian civilisations all through the contemporary times. Some
of the most significant pieces of literature throughout its history include, "The Epic of Gil-
gamesh” (an epic tale written on clay tablets in the Egyptian civilisations), Greek and
Roman mythological story-tellings, Dante's "Divine Comedy" and Chaucer's "Canterbury
Tales" in the Renaissance period, showcasing the influence of humanism. Literature
also saw brilliant contributions in the Shakespearean. Post the periods of the two World
Wars, literature embraced diverse voices and global perspectives, addressing identity,
gender, and the impact of globalisation.
In the contemporary era, literature continues to evolve, reflecting the complexity of the
human experience. It encompasses a vast array of voices and genres, addressing is-
sues pertinent to the modern world. The history of literature stands as a testament to
the enduring power of storytelling and the ever-changing nature of human creativity.

Architecture
Architecture has always had a. strong connection with art. Architecture is not
only a practice of constructing buildings or other structures. It also has a powerful cul-
tural, aesthetic, and even ideological purpose. Architectural monuments are cultural
symbols that define not only a location, such as a city but also an era.Architecture is a
form of communication. It can tell a story, intimidate its visitors, convince someone of a
specific belief or contribute to a spiritual experience. Architects blend aesthetics, func-
tionality, and cultural considerations to create structures that shape the physical envi-
ronment and influence the way people interact with spaces.
As with literature, visual art movements are also translated into a particular
movement in architecture. Think of the classical architecture in Greece, the Gothic ar-
chitecture in the Medieval ages filled with gothic sculptures and religious paintings, the
Renaissance and Brunelleschi dome in Firenze, or Frank Gehry’s deconstructivist mu-
seum building in Bilbao

Theatre
Theatre is a dynamic and ancient form of performing art that brings stories to life
through live performances. Rooted in the traditions of ancient Greece, theatre has
evolved into a multifaceted medium encompassing a wide range of genres and styles. It
involves the collaborative efforts of playwrights, directors, actors, designers, and techni-
cians to create a shared experience for the audience. The stage serves as a canvas
where narratives unfold, emotions are explored, and societal issues are examined.
From classical tragedies and comedies to modern experimental plays, theatre engages
and challenges audiences, providing a unique space for the exploration of the human
condition. Whether in grand theaters or intimate black box spaces, theatre remains a
powerful and immediate form of artistic expression that fosters connection, reflection,
and communal storytelling.

Film
Film is a powerful and immersive medium of visual storytelling that has become a cor-
nerstone of global entertainment and cultural expression. Combining elements of visual
art, narrative storytelling, and technology, filmmaking brings stories to life through mov-
ing images and sound. From silent classics to the vibrant world of contemporary cin-
ema, films have the capacity to evoke emotions, provoke thoughts, and transport audi-
ences to different times and places. The collaborative effort of directors, writers, actors,
cinematographers, and various specialists contributes to the creation of this art form.
Cinematic language, encompassing techniques like cinematography, editing, and sound
design, enhances the storytelling experience. As a mirror reflecting society's dreams,
fears, and aspirations, film remains a captivating and influential medium that continues
to evolve, capturing the imagination of audiences worldwide.

Music
Music is a universal language that transcends cultural boundaries, resonating with the
human spirit on a profound level. It is an art form that expresses emotions, tells stories,
and captures the essence of diverse experiences. Spanning genres from classical sym-
phonies to contemporary pop, music manifests through melody, rhythm, harmony, and
lyrics, creating a rich tapestry of sonic expression. Musicians, composers, and perform-
ers craft compositions that evoke joy, sorrow, love, and every emotion in between.
Whether experienced in concert halls, crowded arenas, or through personal devices,
music has the unique ability to evoke memories, shape moods, and provide a sound-
track to our lives. Its diversity reflects the richness of human creativity and the way it in-
tertwines with the human experience, making music an integral part of our cultural her-
itage and a source of inspiration across generations.

CONCLUSION
With the passing of time, art has grown alongside humans, capturing their hu-
manity. It reflects not only man’s personal motivations but also the development of civili-
sation, cultures and ideologies. Art is a field of study which has invoked a personal con-
nection in as many souls as there have ever been to witness it. It is the one quality that
set us humans apart from all life on earth, the ability to amplify our emotions and ideas
through art.
Art, in its many forms, is practised by almost all human cultures and can be re-
garded as one of the defining characteristics of the human species. In all societies to-
day, the visual arts are intimately intertwined with music, dance, ritual (marking life land-
marks, death, religion and politics) and language (poetry, song and story-telling). Vocal-
ization, ritualized movement and visual display are part of animal courtship and domi-
nance competition as well as human ritual and communication, so it is likely that the
roots of music, dance and body decoration lie deep in the evolutionary history of the ani-
mal kingdom. Nevertheless, with the evolution of human cognition, they were deployed
in new ways, with complex symbolic meaning becoming attached to them.