MODULAR APPROACH TO

ART and
HUMANITIES
THE MEANING AND
MODULE
1
IMPORTANCE OF ART
Art is all around us—from the songs we
hear and the movies we watch, to the MODULE CONTENTS
paintings we admire and the dances
we perform. But what exactly is art?
Why has it been part of every human
culture throughout history? In this
module, we begin our journey into the Lesson I: The Nature of Art
world of Arts and Humanities by
exploring the meaning and importance Lesson II: The Subject of Art
of art. Art is not just about beauty or
decoration—it is a powerful way to
express ideas, emotions, and Lesson III: The Function of Art
experiences. It reflects our identity,
preserves our history, and helps us Lesson IV: The Scope of Art
understand the world and ourselves.
Whether through visual arts, music, Lesson V: The Origin of Art
literature, or performance, art plays a
vital role in shaping human life and
society. Understanding art allows us to
appreciate its value in our daily lives
and recognize its influence across
generations and cultures.

Intended Learning Outcome

At the end of Module 1, you should be able to:

a. Explain the meaning, nature, and importance of arts in our lives;

b. Determine the subject of art and its functions; and
c. Reflect on the functions of art concerning their contributions to the
development of art.
 LESSON 1 The Nature of Art

TAKE THE CHALLENGE!

In this lesson, challenge yourself to:

a. Explain the meaning, nature, and importance of arts in our lives

Activity: "My Life in Art"

Instructions:
Think of a memorable moment in your life that made you feel strong emotions
(happiness, sadness, pride, fear, etc.). Express this moment using one of the following
art forms:
• Drawing or painting
• A short poem
• A short song or spoken word piece
• A simple vlog (1–2 minutes)
Make sure your artwork clearly shows the emotions you felt during that moment. You
may use color, words, tone, or symbols to communicate your feelings.

A N A LYSI S

Right now, let us try to wrap up your experiences with the activity . Let us try to answer
the following questions.

1. How did using art help you express your feelings about that moment?(Did it make the
emotion stronger, clearer, or easier to understand?)
2. What specific elements (colors, words, sounds, etc.) did you use to show your emotion, and
why? (Explain how your choices reflect your feelings.)
3. How can expressing emotions through art help improve your everyday life (in school, with
friends, or at home)? (Think about confidence, communication, or self-awareness.)
ABSTRACTION
The Nature of Art

Art has been defined in various ways:

✓ Art is derived from the Latin word ars, meaning “ability or skill.”
– J.V. Estolas
✓ Art is taken from the Italian word artis, which means
craftsmanship, skill, mastery of form, inventiveness, and the
associations that exist between form and ideas, between
material and technique. – A. Tan
✓ Art is a product of man’s need to express himself. – F. Zulueta
✓ Art is concerned with the communication of certain ideas and
feelings by means of sensuous medium, color, sound, bronze,
marble, words, and film. – C. Sanchez
✓ Art is that which brings life in harmony with the beauty of the
world. – Plato
✓ Art is an attitude of spirit, a state of mind – one which demands
for its own satisfaction and fulfilling, a shaping of matter to new
and more significant form. – John Dewey
✓ Art is the skilful arrangement or composition of some common
but significant qualities of nature such as colors, sounds, lines,
movements, words, stones, wood, etc., to express human
feelings, emotions, or thoughts in a perfect meaningful and
enjoyable way. – Panizo and Rustia
4 common essentials of arts
1. art must be man-made
2. art must be creative, not imitative
3. art must benefit and satisfy man and man must make use of art
in practical terms
4. art is expressed through a certain medium or material by which
the artist communicates himself to his fellows.
Art has a particular importance in our lives. All the art that we
see and hear have a purpose.
✓ We communicate through paintings, songs, dances, and
dramatic plays.
✓ We build monuments to remind us of the heroic deeds of great
men.
✓ Artworks are also valuable sources of inspiration.
✓ We are delighted by the books we read.
✓ Moved by the music we hear.
✓ Paintings, sculptures, and plays capture our attention and
critical thinking.
✓ Modern architectural designs inspire us to plan and construct
our houses beautifully.
✓ Through an artist’s work, we get a glimpse of the thoughts,
feelings, and beliefs of the people who lived in the period the
artwork was produced and the external factors that influenced
the artwork.
 This explains why the arts are called humanities. It brings out
the good and the noble in us.
Art Appreciation is the ability to interpret or understand
man-made arts and enjoy them either through actual and work-
experience with art tools and materials or possession of these works of
art for one’s admiration and satisfaction.
 APPLICATION

Direction: Choose the letter of the correct answer. Write your answer on the
space provided.

1. What is the Latin origin of the word "art"?

A. Artis B. Ars C. Arte D. Artefact
2. According to F. Zulueta, art is:
A. An arrangement of nature’s elements
B. A product of man’s need to express himself
C. A medium of trade and business
D. A tool for architecture only
3. Which of the following best defines art according to Panizo and Rustia?
A. Art is nature’s perfect creation.
B. Art is the soul’s window.
C. Art is the skillful arrangement of natural qualities to express human feelings.
D. Art is a representation of divine power.
4. Which of the following is NOT one of the four common essentials of art?
A. Art must be man-made
B. Art must be imitative
C. Art must benefit and satisfy man
D. Art must use a medium
5. Who said that art is that which brings life in harmony with the beauty of the world?
A. John Dewey
B. C. Sanchez
C. Plato
D. A. Tan
6. Which material is not commonly used as a sensuous medium in art?
A. Bronze
B. Color
C. Film
D. Gravity
7. What is the main goal of art appreciation?
A. To sell and promote artworks
B. To build art museums
C. To interpret and enjoy man-made arts
D. To criticize modern architecture
8. What benefit does art offer according to the presentation?
A. It makes us dream of impossible things.
B. It inspires us, improves critical thinking, and connects us to human experiences.
C. It only entertains the elite class.
D. It only focuses on historical events.
9. Why is art called "humanities"?
A. Because it comes from ancient humans
B. Because it explores space and nature
C. Because it brings out the good and noble in us
D. Because it has no rules
10. Which of the following best describes the importance of art in our lives?
A. Art keeps us entertained when bored.
B. Art gives us money and power.
C. Art helps us connect, express, and grow emotionally, socially, and intellectually.
D. Art helps machines function more efficiently.
 LESSON 2 The Subject of Art

TAKE THE CHALLENGE!

In this lesson, challenge yourself to:

a. Determine the subject of art and its functions

Activity: "Identify the Subject of Art"

Instructions:

Choose a piece of art (painting, sculpture, music, or dance) that you have seen before.
Write a brief description of the artwork. Then, determine if it is a representational
(objective) art or a non-representational (non-objective) art. Explain your reasoning for
classifying it under one of these categories.

A N A LYSI S

Right now, let us try to wrap up your experiences with the activity . Let us try to answer
the following questions.

1. How does the subject of the artwork affect the emotional impact it has on its viewers?
Provide specific examples.
2. What elements in the art (such as color, shape, form, or movement) helped you identify
whether the art is representational or non-representational?
3. How can understanding the subject of art enhance your appreciation of different art forms in
various disciplines like painting, music, or dance?
ABSTRACTION
The Subject of Art

✓ In any art form – painting, music, sculpture, architecture, or dance – there is

always a subject that serves as the foundation of the creation of the work of
art.
✓ A subject of art is usually anything that is represented in the artwork.
✓ The subject of art is varied.
- It may be a person, object, scene, or event.
✓ Artworks that depict something easily recognized by most people are called
representational or objective arts.
- graphic arts, literature, and theatre
- Painting, sculpture, music and dance
✓ Artworks that have no resemblance to any real subject are called non-
representational or non-objective arts.
- They do not represent anything and they are what they are.
- They rather appeal directly to the senses primarily because of the satisfying
organization of their elements.
 APPLICATION

Direction: Choose the letter of the correct answer.

1. What is the subject of art?

A. The material used in an artwork
B. The idea behind the title
C. The person, object, scene, or event represented in the artwork
D. The emotions of the artist
2. What do you call artworks that depict something easily recognized by most people?
A. Abstract art
B. Modern art
C. Representational or objective art
D. Conceptual art
3. Which of the following is not a form of representational art?
A. Literature
B. Theatre
C. Abstract painting
D. Graphic arts
4. What type of art does not resemble any real subject and appeals directly to the senses?
A. Representational art
B. Folk art
C. Non-representational or non-objective art
D. Religious art
5. Why do non-objective arts appeal to the senses?
A. Because they tell detailed stories
B. Because of the satisfying organization of elements
C. Because they look realistic
D. Because they copy nature exactly
 LESSON 3 The Function of
Art

TAKE THE CHALLENGE!

In this lesson, challenge yourself to:

a. Reflect on the functions of art concerning their contributions to the development of art.

Activity: “Exploring the Functions of Art”

Instructions:

• Look at various art forms such as a building design, a painting, a music performance, and
a sculpture.
• For each art form, identify which of the four functions of art (aesthetic, utilitarian, cultural,
or social) it serves.
• Explain how the art form fulfills the function you've chosen.

Example:

• Art Form: Sculpture

• Function: Cultural
• Explanation: Sculptures preserve historical events or individuals, and they help transmit
cultural values to future generations.

A N A LYSI S

Right now, let us try to wrap up your experiences with the activity . Let us try to answer
the following questions.

1. How do different art forms like architecture, music, and painting fulfill the social function of
art in fostering international cooperation and understanding?
2. In what ways can art, specifically in the form of metalworks and ceramics, contribute to both
aesthetic and utilitarian functions in daily life?
ABSTRACTION
The Function of Art

✓ Architecture is directly and almost entirely functional because buildings and

other structures are always built for some special purposes.
✓ Music and dance were used in ancient rituals and worship of the gods, for
social and folk entertainment, as well in the military.
✓ Paintings and sculpture may be used to narrate events, to portray people or
events, to commemorate individuals or historical events, and to serve as
vehicle for personal expression.
✓ Metal works such as gates, grills, lamps, armor, weapons, and tools,
ceramics, glassware, stained glass, mosaic, tilework, textile, and furniture are
among the many types of arts or crafts.
4 main functions of art
1. Aesthetic function
➢ Through art, man becomes conscious of the beauty of nature. He benefits
from his own work and from those done by his fellowmen. He learns to use,
love, and preserve them for his enjoyment and appreciation.
2. Utilitarian function
➢ Comfort and happiness
➢ Through art, man is provided with shelter, clothing, food, light, medicine,
beautiful surroundings, personal ornamentals, entertainment, language,
transportation, and other necessities and conveniences of life.
➢ Improves nature through landscape gardening, creation of super-highways,
and through propagation and conservation – of natural resources.
3. Cultural function
➢ Through the printed matter, art transmits and preserves skills and knowledge
from one generation to another. It makes man aware of his/her cultural
background, making him/her more knowledgeable and his/her life more
enduring and satisfying.
4. Social function
➢ Through civic and graphic arts, man learns to love and help each other.
International understanding and cooperation are fostered and nations
become more unified, friendly, cooperative, helpful, and sympathetic.
 APPLICATION

Direction: Choose the letter of the correct answer.

1. Which of the following is the primary function of architecture?

A. Aesthetic function
B. Cultural function
C. Utilitarian function
D. Social function
2. Music and dance were historically used for all of the following EXCEPT:
A. Social and folk entertainment
B. Religious rituals
C. Military purposes
D. Marketing
3. What is the main purpose of paintings and sculpture in history?
A. To entertain
B. To narrate events and portray people or events
C. To provide shelter
D. To serve as decoration
4. What kind of art would a stainedglass window in a cathedral be classified as?
A. Social function
B. Cultural function
C. Aesthetic function
D. Utilitarian function
5. Which of the following is NOT considered a craft in the context of art?
A. Metal works
B. Ceramics
C. Architecture
D. Glassware
6. The function of art that allows man to appreciate the beauty of nature is called:
A. Social function
B. Cultural function
C. Aesthetic function
D. Utilitarian function
7. Which of the following does art NOT provide under the utilitarian function?
A. Shelter
B. Transportation
C. Entertainment
D. Personal opinions
8. The cultural function of art helps to:
A. Improve economic stability
B. Transmit and preserve skills and knowledge across generations
C. Foster political agendas
D. Improve technological progress
9. Which of the following best describes the social function of art?
A. Art that beautifies landscapes
B. Art that creates personal ornaments
C. Art that promotes international understanding and cooperation
D. Art that portrays historical events
10. Which of the following would be an example of the utilitarian function of art?
A. A painting of a historical event
B. A sculpture made for aesthetic enjoyment
C. Furniture that serves both function and beauty
D. Music composed for a festival
 LESSON 4 The Scope of Art

TAKE THE CHALLENGE!

In this lesson, challenge yourself to:

a. Explain the meaning, nature, and importance of arts in our lives;
b. Determine the subject of art and its functions; and
c. Reflect on the functions of art concerning their contributions to the development of art.

Activity: “Categorizing Art Forms”

Instructions:

• Below are several examples of art forms. Categorize each one under the appropriate
classification based on the content provided.
• After categorizing, explain your choice for each art form.

Examples of Art Forms to Categorize:

• Ballet Dance, Pottery, Opera, Painting, Sculpture, Interior Design, Theatre Play,
Architecture, Literature (e.g., poetry), Commercial Advertisement

Categories to Choose From:

• Fine Arts (Independent Arts), Practical Arts (Useful Arts), Graphic Arts, Plastic Arts,
Phonetic Arts, Kinetic Arts, Mixed Arts, Major Arts, Minor Arts

A N A LYSI S

Right now, let us try to wrap up your experiences with the activity . Let us try to answer
the following questions.

1. How do the classifications of major and minor arts differ in terms of their purpose and use in
society?
2. In what ways can performing arts like dance and theatre serve both aesthetic and social
functions?
3. How can fine arts and practical arts coexist to enhance both intellectual and practical
aspects of daily life?
ABSTRACTION
The Scope of Art

Various authors classify arts in different ways.

❑ MANAOIS
2 general dimension of arts
1. Fine arts or independent arts or aesthetic arts
- Are made primarily for aesthetic enjoyment through the senses, especially
visual and auditory.
- Are music, painting, sculpture, architecture, literature, dance and drama.
2. Practical arts or useful arts or utilitarian arts
- Are intended for practical uses.
- It is the development of raw materials for utilitarian purposes.
- Are industrial art, applied or household art, civic art, commercial art,
agricultural art, business art, distributive art, and fishery art.
❑ CUSTODIOSA SANCHEZ (2002)
- Are consist of visual arts, literature, drama and theatre, music, and dance.
- Visual arts are those that we perceive with our eyes.
Classified into 2 groups:
1. Graphic arts
- painting, drawing, photography, graphic process (printing), commercial art
(designing of books, advertisement, signs, posters, and other displays), and
mechanical process, in which portrayals of forms and symbols are recorded on a
two-dimensional surface.
2. Plastic arts
- include all fields of visual arts for which materials are organized into three-
dimensional forms such as structural architecture, landscape architecture
(garden, parks, playgrounds, golf course beautification), city physical planning
and interior arranging (design of wallpaper, furniture), sculpture, crafts,
industrial design, dress and costume design, and threatre design.
❑ JOSEFINA ESTOLAS (1995)
- Grouped arts into major and minor arts.
- Major arts include painting, architecture, sculpture, literature, music, and
dance.
- Minor arts include the decorative arts popular arts, graphic arts, plastic
arts, and industrial arts.
- Also grouped arts into: visual arts (graphic arts, plastic arts); performing
arts (theatre, play, dance, music); literary arts (short story, novel, poetry,
drama); popular arts (film, newspaper, magazine, radio, television);
gustatory arts of the cuisine (food preparation, beverage preparation);
and decorative arts or applied arts (beautification of houses, offices, cars,
and other structure).
❑ PANIZO and RUSTIA (1995)
Classified arts into 2 major divisions
❖ According to purpose
5 categories
1. Practical arts or useful arts
- Are directed to produce artifacts and utensils for the satisfaction of human
needs.
- Examples: handicrafts (basket weaving, mat weaving, etc.), embroidery,
ceramics, iron and metal crafts, and tin can manufacture.
2. Liberal arts
- Are directed toward intellectual growth, such as in the study of
philosophy, psychology, literature, mathematics, and sciences.
3. Fine arts
- Focused towards creative activity for the contemplation of mind and
upliftment of the spirit.
- Examples: painting, sculpture, and architecture.
4. Major arts
- Characterized by actual and potential expressiveness.
- Examples: music, poetry, and sculpture.
5. Minor arts
- Concerned with practical uses and purposes.
- Examples: interior decoration and porcelain.
❖ According to media and forms
5 types
1. Plastic arts
- Are works which exist in a physical space and perceived by the sense.
- Examples: sculpture and decorative materials.
2. Phonetic arts
- Utilizes sounds and words as medium of expression.
- Examples: music, drama, and literature
3. Kinetic arts
- Involve the element of rhythm.
- Example: dance
4. Pure arts
- Take only one medium of expression.
- Examples: sound in music and color in painting.
5. Mixed arts
- Take more than one medium.
- Example: opera which combines music, poetry, and drama.
 APPLICATION

Direction: Choose the letter of the correct answer.

1. Which of the following is NOT included in the fine arts or independent arts?
a) Painting
b) Dance
c) Ceramics
d) Architecture
2. What is the primary purpose of practical arts or useful arts?
a) Aesthetic enjoyment
b) Intellectual growth
c) Practical use or development of raw materials
d) Upliftment of the spirit
3. Which of the following is an example of graphic arts?
a) Sculpture
b) Landscape architecture
c) Photography
d) Music
4. Which classification of arts includes theatre, play, dance, and music?
a) Visual arts
b) Performing arts
c) Literary arts
d) Applied arts
5. According to Panizo and Rustia, which category of arts focuses on intellectual growth?
a) Fine arts
b) Liberal arts
c) Practical arts
d) Minor arts
6. Which is an example of plastic arts?
a) Basket weaving
b) Ceramics
c) Dance
d) Photography
7. What is the main difference between major arts and minor arts according to Estolas (1995)?
a) Major arts are practical; minor arts are creative
b) Major arts are for intellectual growth; minor arts are for decoration
c) Major arts are highly expressive; minor arts have practical uses
d) Major arts include literature and music; minor arts are only visual
8. Which of the following is considered a phonetic art?
a) Sculpture
b) Drama
c) Architecture
d) Interior decoration
9. Which category of arts involves more than one medium of expression?
a) Pure arts
b) Kinetic arts
c) Mixed arts
d) Plastic arts
10. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of plastic arts?
a) Exists in physical space
b) Can be perceived by the senses
c) Uses words and sounds as a medium
d) Includes sculpture and decorative materials
 LESSON 5 The Origin of Art

TAKE THE CHALLENGE!

In this lesson, challenge yourself to:

a. Explain the meaning, nature, and importance of arts in our lives;
b. Determine the subject of art and its functions; and
c. Reflect on the functions of art concerning their contributions to the development of art.

Activity: “Exploring the Functions of Art

Instructions:

• Look at various art forms such as a building design, a painting, a music performance, and
a sculpture.
• For each art form, identify which of the four functions of art (aesthetic, utilitarian, cultural,
or social) it serves.
• Explain how the art form fulfills the function you've chosen.

Example:

• Art Form: Sculpture

• Function: Cultural
• Explanation: Sculptures preserve historical events or individuals, and they help transmit
cultural values to future generations.

A N A LYSI S

Right now, let us try to wrap up your experiences with the activity . Let us try to answer
the following questions.

1. How do different art forms like architecture, music, and painting fulfill the social function of
art in fostering international cooperation and understanding?
2. In what ways can art, specifically in the form of metalworks and ceramics, contribute to both
aesthetic and utilitarian functions in daily life?
ABSTRACTION
The Origin of Art

✓ Art is viewed as a reflection of creativity, integrity, and inventiveness within a

culture.
✓ The history of art began with that of humanity.
✓ Art dates back to the time when superstitions and belief in the spirits are still
very common in every culture.
✓ Indigenous art in the form of dancing, painting, music, and poetry
accompanied ancient rituals and ceremonies.
✓ Men and women of the early times perform dances to entertain, to worship
their gods and goddesses, or to invoke success and blessings.
✓ Their music and poetry chronicles the life and works of their ancestors as
well as legendary origins of heroes, heroines, and gods.
✓ Tribalist cultures often wore body paintings during ceremonies.
✓ Cave paintings and drawings are believed or reflect ancient religious beliefs
and visions.
✓ Artworks made from the more durable materials like metal, stone, clay, bone
and glass survive longer than those made from materials that are more
prone to decay like wood.
 APPLICATION

Direction: Choose the letter of the correct answer.

1. What is one primary purpose of art in early tribal cultures?

a) To entertain royalty
b) To worship gods and goddesses
c) To promote trade
d) To reflect technological advancements
2. Which of the following materials would likely survive longer in ancient art due to its durability?
a) Wood
b) Metal
c) Fabric
d) Leather
3. What is commonly reflected in ancient cave paintings?
a) Daily life activities
b) Historical events
c) Religious beliefs and visions
d) Technological inventions
4. Which of the following art forms was used by early cultures to accompany rituals and ceremonies?
a) Photography
b) Painting
c) Theatre
d) Literature
5. What role did music and poetry play in early cultures?
a) To entertain kings and queens
b) To chronicle the life and works of ancestors and heroes
c) To teach children moral lessons
d) To serve as a commercial advertisement