Basic Art 101: Your First Art Lesson (As An Adult)

I was going to start this post with, “I recently went to…”—but it just hit me how not recent that was 😭. Back in January, on a ridiculously freezing day, I visited the Moco Museum at Marble Arch. I know, I know—I asked you guys to hold me accountable, so you’re probably wondering why this is only being posted now. I truly wish I had a better excuse, but in the spirit of honesty... it just got lost in the blog post traffic! 😭 I genuinely meant to post it sooner, but between planning holidays and hopping around to different exhibitions, I totally forgot—until today, when I was organising photos on my computer (because yes, some form of organisation is a must, or my brain would go into overdrive like it usually does 😅).

It’s not me, I swear—it’s the ADHD!

Art Isn’t Just for “Smart” People (But I Used to Think That)

As I sit down to write this, I’ve realised something: art is kind of an acquired interest. And honestly, one of the reasons I started exploring it was because I wanted to feel (and let’s be real—*look*) more intelligent. You know how in the movies, all the sophisticated characters are talking about art? Yeah, I wanted that. So here I am, learning as I go—and I’m inviting you to come along for the ride.

What Is Art Anyway?

Under the “art” umbrella, you've got painting, sculpture, music, dance, literature, theatre, film, photography, and more. All these forms are different ways of expressing emotion, telling stories, challenging norms, or explaining the world—often without using a single word. That’s what makes art so powerful.

How People Connect With Art

Here are a few reasons why art hits home for so many people:

• Emotional Connection – Art helps people feel seen, understood, or moved. A - painting might comfort someone. A song can transport you back in time.

• Cultural Identity – Art reflects where we come from. It keeps traditions alive and connects us to our roots.

• Inspiration & Escapism – Whether it’s abstract expressionism or dreamy fantasy art, we often turn to art when we need to escape or find motivation.

• Personal Expression – Art is interpreted differently by everyone. What speaks to you might be totally different from how someone else sees it—and that’s the beauty of it.

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Why Artists Matter

Let’s give artists their flowers—they shape how we see the world. Here’s why they’re so important:

• Visionaries – Artists often see what others can’t, and they help us look at life from new angles.

• Pioneers of Change – From Picasso to Banksy, artists challenge norms and spark cultural or political shifts.

• Masters of Their Craft – Whether it’s painting, singing, or performance, there’s something inspiring about watching someone fully own their talent.

• Cultural Icons – Some artists transcend their medium and become symbols of entire movements—think Van Gogh, Frida Kahlo, or Beyoncé.

A (Very) Brief History of Art

Don’t worry, I’ll keep this short and sweet—but here’s a little crash course:

• Prehistoric Art (30,000 BCE–3000 BCE)** – Cave paintings and carvings were early forms of storytelling and communication.

• Ancient Civilisations (3000 BCE–400 CE)** – Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans used art to honor gods, leaders, and myths.

• Medieval Art (400–1400 CE)** – Mostly religious and symbolic, focused on devotion and faith.

• Renaissance (1400–1600)** – A major glow-up for art: realism, emotion, and mind-blowing perspective (hello, da Vinci and Michelangelo).

• Modern Art (1800s–1970s)** – Artists like Monet, Picasso, and Warhol broke the rules and redefined what art could be.

• Contemporary Art (1970s–Today)** – Anything goes. Digital, interactive, conceptual—you name it.

What Art Represents

Art isn’t just about looking pretty (although it definitely can be). It represents:

• The Human Experience – Birth, death, love, pain, joy, war... it’s all in there.

• Social Commentary – Art can challenge systems, celebrate freedom, or make you question the status quo.

• Beauty & Aesthetics – Sometimes, art exists purely to be enjoyed and appreciated.

• Innovation – Artists often experiment with new tools and tech way before anyone else catches on.

Why Art Still Matters Today

Even in a fast-paced, tech-obsessed world, art is still essential. Here’s why:

• It builds empathy and bridges cultural gaps.

• It supports mental health and emotional growth.

• It sparks creativity in schools, workplaces—even in problem-solving.

• It shapes politics, activism, and global conversations.

So that’s your little art deep dive—your “starter kit,” if you will—before I get into my full review of the Moco Museum. Whether you’re an art newbie or a seasoned gallery-goer, I hope you’re as excited as I am to explore more.

Now for the real insider secret: 

While art is often celebrated for its beauty, status, and investment potential, here's the truth—most celebrities and socialites aren’t collecting purely out of passion. In fact, Art is a clever way to avoid taxes. Here’s how it works: if you sell a painting and stash the cash in the bank, you’re on the hook for capital gains tax. But if you sell one artwork and immediately use that money to buy another, you can legally skip the tax bill. It’s a little-known loophole that’s surprisingly common in the high-end art world.

Stay Tuned for the Moco Museum Review!