Visual Narratives in Contemporary Painting as an Educational Resource in Shaping the Artistic Worldview

Abstract

In a contemporary practice, painting functions both as an aesthetic object and a powerful narrative medium conveying profound social, philosophical, and symbolic meanings. This study examines how visual narratives in contemporary paintings shape artistic worldviews and their significance for art education. Employing qualitative semiotic and iconological analysis methods, the research explores how symbolic elements, composition, and color contribute to meaning construction. Findings reveal that contemporary artists employ dynamic, contextually flexible symbols that operate on multiple interpretive levels. While painting remains underutilized as an educational tool – often overshadowed by non-painting techniques and technical instruction. This analysis draws attention to the need for greater inclusiveness in art education that incorporates visual pedagogy to aid in developing analytical and reflective thinking. This research, while contributing to the body of knowledge, apologetically recognizes limitations in sample size and the subjective nature of interpretation and calls for expanding the range of analyzed artworks and methodologies for future studies. Through this analysis, the essence of contemporary painting is formulated, and its significance in provoking pedagogical discourse toward the visual culture is brought to light.