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BIG QUESTION

WHAT IS�ART?

Who decides—and does everyone have to agree?

Visual Arts • Opening Discussion

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DO NOW

Start With Your Own Definition

In your own words, finish this sentence:

“Art is ______________________________.”

THINK

What makes something feel like art to you?

WRITE

Give one example that supports your definition.

SHARE

Be ready to explain your thinking.

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EXPLORE

There Is No Single Easy Answer

People have defined art in many ways across cultures and time.

EXPRESSION

Art can communicate feelings, experiences, identity, or ideas.

CREATION

Art can be something intentionally made, arranged, performed, or transformed.

INTERPRETATION

Meaning can change depending on who is looking, where it appears, and why it was made.

Key idea: art can be visual, physical, digital, temporary, useful, strange—or difficult to explain.

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DISCUSS

Art or Not Art?

A sneaker design

ART / NOT ART / DEPENDS

Graffiti on a wall

ART / NOT ART / DEPENDS

A video game

ART / NOT ART / DEPENDS

A chair

ART / NOT ART / DEPENDS

An AI-generated image

ART / NOT ART / DEPENDS

A pile of objects in a museum

ART / NOT ART / DEPENDS

Defend your answer with a reason—not just a vote.

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LOOK CLOSER

What Can Make Something Art?

INTENTION

Why was it made?

SKILL

What choices or techniques were used?

MESSAGE

What does it communicate?

CONTEXT

Where and when do we encounter it?

RESPONSE

What does it make us think or feel?

ORIGINALITY

Does it transform or challenge an idea?

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CHALLENGE

Does Art Have to Be Beautiful?

NO.

Art can also be uncomfortable, confusing, political, funny, ugly, quiet, useful, personal, or unfinished.

A stronger question might be:

What is the artwork trying to DO?

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COLLABORATE

Build a Class Definition

With a partner or table group:

1. Compare your definitions.

2. Agree on 3 words that MUST be part of a definition of art.

3. Write one sentence your group can defend.

4. Choose one example that tests your definition.

Be prepared for another group to challenge your definition.

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EXIT TICKET

So… what is art?

After today’s discussion, write a NEW definition in 1–2 sentences.

Then answer:

Did your definition change? Why or why not?

There may not be one correct definition—but your reasoning should be clear.