Art

Everyone is aware of art and it's always around us - but what exactly is it? Art is the application of creativity through a visual form. It has many benefits, including:

• Relieves stress
• Boosts self esteem
• Encourages creative thinking
• Allows you to feel a sense of accomplishment

This short videos explores the benefits art can have on children's minds, bodies and emotions.

Types of art:

There are many different types of art including:

• Drawings
• Photography
• Performing arts
• Filmmaking
• Animation

Whatever your art interest is, you should be able to find an art style to suit you.

Why do people create art?

People enjoy art as it allows them to escape from reality and express themselves through an enjoyable, creative way.

For some, it can be hard to communicate how they are feeling and art allows them to communicate the way they feel in a visual form, such as videos or film making.  

Where can I learn art:

Most children learn art at school. But this is not the only way.

• Some schools offer extra after school clubs such as photography and painting
• Online courses 
• Activity groups and classes

Take action: Visit Activities Oxfordshire to see all the art activities available.

Local art galleries to visit:

• Modern Art Oxford
• Oxford Ashmolean Museum
• Cornerstone
• Mill Arts Centre

Although you need to pay to see some exhibitions, lots are free and some also offer discounts for students and young people.

My experience of art: I've always enjoyed photography; I particularly enjoy taking photos of the scenery when I am travelling. The thing I enjoy most about photography is the creativity. I also like the fact that photographs allow me to look back at past memories.  - Rachel, 18