A captivating exploration of the history of art in the West and throughout the world, this lively narrative encourages appreciation for a diverse range of works of art. Author Henry M. Sayre teaches readers that creating art, from an accessible act of genius, is a process of critical thinking and problem solving that has relevance to their lives as learners and thinkers. The book presents art as a rich array of materials and aesthetic elements combined with the inner workings of the human spirit, passion, emotion, and creativity. A five-part organization covers: the visual world: understanding the art you see, the formal elements and their design: describing the art you see, the fine arts media: learning how art is made, the visual arts in everyday life: recognizing the art of design, and the visual record: placing the arts in historical context.