Art appreciation refers to the pursuit of knowledge and understanding of the universal and timeless

qualities characterizing works of art. It invokes an analysis of the works based on acknowledged
elements of composition and principles of design, through which enjoyment of the humanities is
enhanced. Introduction to Art Appreciation is primarily intended for the Humanities course at the
tertiary level. Nevertheless, this may also be used as a reference material for other courses in teaching
the meaning and importance of art, its elements, and its development in the Philippines. In preparing
this book, the following general objectives were considered by the author: 1. to provide Humanities
students with a general perspective of art, making them see and appreciate their own world of arts from
various vantage points; 2. to introduce Humanities students to visual arts (painting, architecture, and
sculpture), auditory arts (music and literature), and performing arts / theatre arts (drama and dance)
through the study of the types, mediums, basic elements, and principles of organization of each form; 3.
to familiarize Humanities students with some of the materials and processes involved in the production
of art; 4. to aid in the analysis of the formal structure of various works of art considering the historical
period and cultural framework in which they were produced; 5. to promote the development of critical
thinking in the field of arts and in other academic areas; and 6. to develop among the Humanities
students an awareness of the current times and associate them with their cultural heritage, thereby
integrating the past and the present. At the end of each chapter, evaluation activities are given to
enhance the cognitive learning of the students. Suggested enrichment exercises are also provided to
make art appreciation more interesting, meaningful, and enjoyable.