Lesson 2: What is Art? Philosophies and Definitions

In this lesson, we will attempt to define art and will see that this is no easy task. In our exploration of the concept of art itself, we will learn about the ubiquity of art in our lives, historical points of view on art as a concept, the different purposes art may serve and a little bit about the very idea of definition and the philosophy of categorization.

Outline of Questions and Concepts Explored in Lesson 2

What is art? 

We will look at definitions from dictionaries and pop culture.

Have definitions changes over time?

We will look at traditional definitions as well as some theories of Art.

Can we distinguish art from non-art? 

We will look at different approaches to categorizing levels of Art

What are some philosophical views on art?  

We will investigate various approaches to categorizations in general and explore how these approaches inform how we understand Art.