Art is a broad subject that includes a wide variety of work in all shapes and forms, from past and present. The purpose of this project is to showcase why two of my favorite TV shows, Avatar: The Last Airbender (ATLA) and The Legend of Korra (TLOK), are worth archiving. Now I know what you're thinking, why on Earth would two children's shows be worth developing a final project on for a college-level course. Although they aired on Nickelodeon for younger audiences, they encompassed much more than the average youth program. The underlying, deep universal themes, complex characters, and captivating storyline engaged those of all ages. The two would both go on to win several awards including, Best TV Series, Pulcinella Awards, 2005 (Avatar: The Last Airbender), and Best TV Animated Series, IGN's Best of 2012 Awards (The Legend of Korra) (Wikipedia contributors).

I looked to select a topic that truly interests me. Being a big fan of both shows after just recently finishing The Legend of Korra this past summer, it seemed like the best idea to pursue. The goal is to go beyond only summarizing or talking about each work. I want to cover more than what's there by connecting messages between both shows and society today. I try to give a clear outline of each; the plot, influences, and setting followed by an in-depth analysis of the themes and characters in the works. My hope is to educate those who read this on a topic I enjoy and highlight the many reasons why these shows are worth archiving. Maybe, I will even convince readers to give either show a try if they haven't seen them already (they're both on Netflix).

A work's significance depends on how it impacts those who view it. Television shows can actually be great learning tools. Even if an individual is watching just because they enjoy it, there's more to take away than just a good story. There is evidence of this in both series, as they demonstrate meaningful lessons viewers can learn from as they watch. It can be as simple as people can change, or the fact that everyone is in control of their purpose and decisions in life. Whether or not viewers' can apply or relate to these lessons, it's vital to recognize them to understand the work as a whole. It's the presence of these underlying messages that make both shows so great.