Students will begin to understand how the arts might transmit or question cultural values and norms. They will explore the changes that result from new ideas and technology in societies, cultures and the arts. The students will discover that the arts and artists play a significant role in human interactions, expressions and daily life. This mini-unit encourages students to become aware of the connections between visual art and daily life. They can see that many artists choose their subject matter from what they see and know around them.
Students can also see that visual art is present in their own community.
Look at celebrations which are practiced by various cultures. Students could study, for example, an Aboriginal Pow wow, Chinese New Year, Hanukkah, Christmas, etc. Many of these events have a great deal of symbolism which students could discuss. If students practice a particular tradition, have them bring examples of clothing, food, objects, etc. which they use as part of their celebration. In Saskatchewan and Canada, there are certain days set aside for specific reasons which originated many years ago.