Visual Literacy

Visual literacy is the ability to interpret, comprehend, appreciate, use, and create visual media, using conventional as well as contemporary and emerging media, in ways that advance thinking, decision-making, communicating, and learning. Being visually literate is a critical factor for success in society and helps us understand our world.

 Close readings of works of art and other media as text empower students to build strong content knowledge in a range of disciplines, as well as key skills such as critical thinking, evidence-based reasoning, and meaning-making.

 Engaging and conveying ideas in a visual language, through an art medium, is a crucial aspect of visual literacy.

 Discussions about works of art and design develop speaking and listening skills that support collaborative meaning-making and the articulation of ideas.

 Students communicate artistic intention through the visual, verbal, and written presentation of their own work.

 Visual literacy, when coupled with the ability to read, write, think mathematically, and express oneself competently, prepares students for productive futures.

NAEA Position Statement on Visual Literacy [Adopted April 2014; Reviewed and Revised March 2017]