The arts are an integral part of human society and culture, providing a medium for expression, communication, and creative exploration. From music to visual arts, theater, dance, and literature, the arts offer a rich tapestry of experiences that reflect the diversity and complexity of the human experience. In this article, we will explore what is considered “the arts” based on statistical data and provide a short description of each art form.
List of the “the Arts”:
According to the National Endowment for the Arts, the arts are defined as “activities that involve the creation, performance, and/or presentation of imaginative works that are intended to be appreciated for their beauty, emotional power, and intellectual depth.” This broad definition encompasses a wide range of art forms, including:
Visual Arts – including painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking, and mixed media.
Performing Arts – including theater, dance, opera, and music.
Literature – including poetry, fiction, non-fiction, and drama.
Media Arts – including film, television, and digital media.
More on “the Arts”
Visual Arts – Visual arts refer to art forms that create works that are primarily visual in nature. According to the National Endowment for the Arts, in 2017, approximately 4.3 million Americans worked in the visual arts and design fields, representing 2.3% of the U.S. workforce.
Performing Arts – Performing arts refer to art forms that involve live performances, including theater, dance, and music. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2019, there were approximately 151,000 actors, 27,000 dancers, and 200,000 musicians and singers employed in the United States.
Literature – Literature refers to written works that include poetry, fiction, non-fiction, and drama. According to the National Endowment for the Arts, in 2017, approximately 131 million Americans read at least one work of literature, with the most popular genres being fiction, non-fiction, and poetry.
Media Arts – Media arts refer to art forms that use technology to create works of art, including film, television, and digital media. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2019, there were approximately 40,000 film and video editors and camera operators employed in the United States.
The arts encompass a wide range of creative expressions that are essential to the human experience. From visual arts to literature, performing arts, and media arts, each art form offers a unique perspective and mode of communication. Statistical data reveals the significant impact the arts have on our society, from providing employment opportunities to enriching our cultural heritage. Understanding what is considered “the arts” is an essential step towards appreciating and supporting these invaluable expressions of human creativity.
