The changes implemented in our education system in recent times have called for adjustments and revisions in the programs and curricula of many academic institutions. The place of teaching art in the higher levels and the way it should be taught inevitably became subject to rethinking and reevaluation, along with courses from other disciplines. But this development is by no means solely an outcome of the recent restructuring of the academic ladder. For instance, there has been a long-standing need to assess whether the existing General Education art courses taught in colleges and universities, commonly oriented towards "appreciation," actually suffice in enabling students to embark on a more meaningful engagement with art. Another concern was the usual focus on Western art classics and its implications on how students make sense of more local and contemporary developments in art.
This book attempts to address the issues mentioned above and open up many other possibilities. It offers the new material required by the changes that took effect as our educational system has been reconfigured. More importantly, it aspires to elevate the level of discourse in looking at art beyond that of appreciation and focus on its relevance in the local context and present time. The chapters of the book contain a wealth of perspectives and approaches to deepen and broaden the ways art can be read and examined. In particular, sections have been devoted to comprehensive discussions of key terminologies in art, most especially those that carry theoretical and conceptual baggage. The role of institutions, such as recognition bodies, is also emphasized. Another part worth noting is the discussion on art criticism; its introduction as a significant and systematic process can generate more interest in this crucial field within the arts. This textbook employs a student-friendly and accessible language, without losing sight of the complexity and depth of contemporary art, and features a wide range of art forms and examples. It is hoped that the book will stimulate critical engagement with art among students, and impart an awareness of the diversity of our creative expressions and the lenses through which these can be reflected upon.

Includes bibliographical references, image credits, glossaries, and indexes.