What is art? Is it something confined to a museum or gallery, or can it occupy our communities, our schools, our bookshelves, and even our text message conversations? Is it something beautiful, moving, confusing, or perhaps all of the above? What gives Art meaning? And why is Art so important to us--all of us? Art Matters introduces students to the wide range of art that is around them. Featuring an enormous assortment of types of art that diverse artists have created for different people around the world, it demonstrates how pervasive and critical art is in our lives--from the emojis we text, to the furniture we sit on, to the buildings we live in, to the photographs we see. Through stories, examples, thoughtful pedagogy, and in-depth discussions of process and history, Art Matters motivates students to experience art actively and meaningfully. By asking questions and exposing students to different viewpoints and ideas, the author gives them the tools to speak, write, think critically, and form conclusions about what they see in familiar and unfamiliar works. This book will show students that art is everywhere, art is vibrant, and art matters.