This article explores the meaning of art, the many types and subcategories of art, and the importance of art in society today. Whether you’re a student, a teacher, or simply an art enthusiast, this is your guide to understanding why art still matters especially in modern South Africa.

What Is Art, Really?

Art can be defined as a creative expression of human emotion, ideas, culture, or imagination. It's not limited to paintings or sculptures  art includes music, dance, digital creations, spoken word, and more. One of the most beautiful aspects of art is that it’s open to interpretation. What moves one person might confuse another, and that’s exactly the point. Art invites us to see things differently.

In South African history, art has also served as a voice for protest, freedom, and unity. From apartheid-era protest art to post-1994 cultural expression, art continues to reflect the nation’s evolving identity.

Main Categories and Subcategories of Art

The art world is incredibly diverse. While we often hear broad terms like "fine arts" or "visual arts," it's helpful to dig deeper into the different categories and subcategories of art. Understanding these gives us a greater appreciation for the depth and variety of creative expression around us.

Visual Arts

This category includes artworks you can see  such as painting, drawing, printmaking, photography, and sculpture. It’s one of the oldest and most traditional forms of art.

Subcategories of Visual Arts:

• Painting – Includes oil, acrylic, watercolor, and mural painting.
• Drawing – Pencil, charcoal, ink, and mixed media sketches.
• Printmaking – The process of making artworks by printing (e.g. linocut, etching).
• Sculpture – Three-dimensional art using clay, wood, metal, or stone.
• Photography – Digital and film photography focused on artistic expression.

Performing Arts

Performing arts involve live performance through music, dance, drama, or spoken word. These art forms are interactive and often created for an audience.

Subcategories of Performing Arts:

• Theatre – Includes acting, stage design, and scriptwriting.
• Dance – Ballet, contemporary, hip hop, traditional African dance, and more.
• Music – Instrumental and vocal performances, composing, and production.
• Spoken Word – Performance poetry, storytelling, and slam poetry.

Digital Arts

As technology continues to evolve, so does art. Digital arts include all forms of creative work that use digital tools. It’s one of the fastest-growing categories, especially among young creators.

Subcategories of Digital Arts:

• Graphic Design – Logos, posters, and branding using software tools.
• Animation – 2D or 3D motion design, including cartoons and explainer videos.
• Virtual Art – Art created or experienced in virtual reality (VR).
• Digital Illustration – Drawing or painting using tablets and design software.
• Game Art – Visual design for video games and interactive environments.

Literary Arts

This category involves the written word. Literary artists use language to provoke thought, share stories, and build emotional connection through rhythm and narrative.

Subcategories of Literary Arts:

• Poetry – Structured or freeform writing that emphasizes emotion and imagery.
• Fiction – Novels and short stories, often exploring culture, history, or fantasy.
• Non-Fiction – Essays, memoirs, journalism, and biographies.
• Scripts – Writing for theatre, film, radio, or TV.

Importance of Art in Society

Art goes far beyond decoration. In fact, art has the power to shape opinions, document history, and unite communities. In South Africa, public murals have told stories of struggle and triumph. Music has brought people together across cultures and languages.

Art as a Tool for Education

In schools, art education helps students improve focus, creativity, and emotional intelligence. Visual arts and performing arts programs give learners the opportunity to express themselves in unique and meaningful ways.

Art and Mental Health

Creating or experiencing art can be therapeutic. Art therapy is now widely used to help people cope with anxiety, trauma, and depression. Even journaling, painting, or listening to music at home can improve mental well-being.

Art as Cultural Identity

In South Africa, cultural art including beadwork, pottery, and traditional dance keeps heritage alive. These forms of indigenous art continue to inspire modern designs and help preserve African identity in a globalized world.

Modern Art Movements and Technology

Art is not static. New forms of expression are emerging every day. Urban art like graffiti is now seen as a legitimate form of storytelling. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have become digital galleries for the next generation of artists.

Technology has also made art more accessible. Today, a young artist in Limpopo can showcase their digital paintings to a global audience within minutes. This has opened up opportunities for collaboration, education, and entrepreneurship in the art space.

Popular Art Bursaries in South Africa

For aspiring artists looking to study further, bursaries can be life-changing. They remove financial barriers and provide opportunities to grow in a field that thrives on creativity and passion. Below are some well-known art bursaries available in South Africa:

National Arts Council of South Africa (NAC) Bursary

This bursary supports undergraduate and postgraduate students in visual arts, performing arts, and literature. Preference is given to applicants from rural or disadvantaged communities, and the bursary often covers tuition and related costs.

Department of Sports, Arts and Culture (DSAC) Bursary

DSAC offers funding for studies in arts and culture disciplines. Students focusing on performance, visual art, or cultural heritage management may apply, especially if their studies align with promoting national identity and transformation.

University-Specific Art Bursaries

• Michaelis School of Fine Art (UCT) – Offers internal awards and support to fine art students based on performance and need.
• Wits School of Arts (Wits University) – Bursaries are available for drama, film, music, and fine art students.
• University of Pretoria Faculty of Humanities – Offers arts bursaries for students in disciplines like drama, music, and visual arts.

Ruth First Scholarship – Rhodes University

Though it covers multiple faculties, this scholarship rewards academic excellence, and art students at Rhodes University can benefit from it to continue their creative education.

South African Society of Music Teachers (SASMT) Bursaries

SASMT provides music-focused bursaries to young musicians in South Africa, especially those pursuing music education, composition, or performance at a tertiary level.

ACT Development Programme (Arts & Culture Trust)

This program supports young creatives with bursaries, mentorship, and opportunities for showcasing their work. It targets a wide range of fields, including literature, dance, drama, and fine arts.

Friends of Design – Academy of Digital Arts Scholarships

Located in Cape Town, this academy offers scholarships for students in digital design, animation, and illustration. The program aims to nurture digital creativity and provide real-world training.

Whether it’s a hand-carved wooden mask or a 3D digital animation, art has the power to reflect, disrupt, and inspire. It speaks a universal language that continues to evolve with time and technology. By exploring the different types and subcategories of art, we gain a better understanding of human creativity and its role in shaping our world.

Art is not just for museums and professionals. It belongs in our schools, communities, and homes. So whether you create, collect, or simply appreciate  make space for art in your life. Because in every brushstroke, dance move, or written word, there is a story waiting to be shared.

Looking to learn more about art in South Africa? Stay tuned to our blog for updates on local exhibitions, youth art programs, and creative career opportunities.

Need help finding a bursary? Check out ourBursary Listingsor contact us for guidance we're here to help you succeed.