What is art and why is it important?

Art is the term for objects that convey meanings or emotions or depict people, places and things, and it is important for a few reasons. Through paintings, sculptures, drawings and other forms of art, artists can express themselves and provide viewers with new perspectives on everything from social and political issues of the day to spiritual matters to the nature of what it means to be human. Art can shift attitudes, promote ideas and spur action. In addition, artwork can make spaces more visually appealing, allowing us to live and work in more pleasant environments. Plus, examining historical art can help us better understand the cultures and attitudes that prevailed during times other than our own. On 1stDibs, explore a wide range of fine art.