When possible, collect written information that explains the purposes and meanings behind the celebrations. In your collection of images include a variety of the themes of celebration. Every culture has demonstrated a need to set apart from everyday life some moments or events as being special. From prehistory we have examples of people using art to crystallize these experiences and events. Jasper Johns's Flag Series connect us as human beings in our attempt to remember and affirm the richness of life.
Celebrations reinforce connections among people by symbolizing tribal, national, or spiritual unity.
Activity Give each student a visual as he or she enters the classroom. Have each student identify from the visual given to him or her what theme of celebration it depicts. Select two to six art reproductions that will provide comparisons of celebrations. Refer to three works selected for this lesson. Choose and distribute reproductions that illustrate at least four different cultures' interpretations of celebrations.