NCERT Class 8 Arts Kriti: Chapter 18 — Arts of the People, With the People, For the People
This chapter, "Arts of the People, With the People, For the People," from NCERT Class 8 Arts Kriti, explores the integral role of art in human life since prehistoric times. It highlights how art reflects social values and influences creative expression. The chapter introduces various art practices that utilize everyday materials like thread, paper, and cloth, emphasizing the techniques, hard work, patience, and dedication of artists who preserve these traditions. It discusses the connection between nature and art, using examples like the Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya, formed by training tree roots. The chapter encourages appreciation for sustainable art practices and the creation of everyday objects for daily use, fostering a connection between artists and the community. It aims to help students understand the significance of art in everyday life and the importance of sustainable choices in art.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 8 |
| Subject | Arts |
| Book | Kriti |
| Chapter | Chapter 18 — Arts of the People, With the People, For the People |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 3 minutes |
| Word count | 445 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the historical and social significance of art.
- Identify art practices using everyday materials like thread, paper, and cloth.
- Appreciate the techniques, patience, and dedication of artists.
- Recognize the connection between nature and art, exemplified by Living Root Bridges.
- Understand the importance of sustainable choices in art practices.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Artefact | An object made by a human being, typically one of cultural or historical interest. |
| Innovations | New methods, ideas, or products. |
| Expressions | The process of making known one's thoughts or feelings. |
| Techniques | A way of carrying out a particular task, especially the execution or performance of an artistic work or a scientific procedure. |
| Sustainable | Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level; relating to or being a method that does not completely use up or destroy natural resources. |
| Crocheting | A process of creating fabric by interlocking loops of yarn or thread with a hook. |
| Knitting | A process of creating fabric by interlocking loops of yarn or thread using two needles. |
| Weaving | A process of interlacing threads or strips of material to form cloth or other surfaces. |
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Practice questions
- How does art connect people across time? Answer: Every artefact carries the voice and touch of other humans, forging a connection between them and us across time.
- What kind of materials are primarily used in the art practices discussed in the chapter? Answer: Everyday materials like thread, paper, and cloth are primarily used.
- Name some techniques used by artists to create objects from materials like thread and fibre. Answer: Techniques include twisting, knotting, crocheting, knitting, and weaving.
- What is unique about the bridges in Meghalaya mentioned in the chapter? Answer: They are formed by training the living roots of Indian rubber trees to grow across streams and rivers.
- What does the chapter suggest about the relationship between nature and art? Answer: It highlights fascinating networks that connect living beings and how nature's elements, like tree roots, can be used to create art and functional structures.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main theme of NCERT Class 8 Arts Chapter 18?
The chapter focuses on 'Arts of the People, With the People, For the People,' highlighting art practices using everyday materials and their connection to nature and community.
How does art reflect social values?
Changes in social values, ideas, and behaviour influence creative thoughts and expressions, making art a reflection of society.
What are some examples of art using everyday materials mentioned?
The chapter mentions art practices using thread, paper, and cloth, and everyday objects like baskets and handloom fabric.
What are the Living Root Bridges?
They are bridges in Meghalaya formed by training the living roots of Indian rubber trees to grow across streams and rivers, showcasing a unique blend of nature and art.
Why is patience and dedication important in art?
Creating beautiful objects and artwork using specific techniques requires hard work, patience, and dedication from artists, especially those keeping traditions alive.
What is the significance of the activity 'Tie and Link'?
The activity encourages students to explore natural fibre ropes and create small artworks, connecting them to techniques like twisting and knotting used in art.
Related resources
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Topics covered
NCERT Class 8 Arts — Kriti — Chapter 18 — Arts of the People, With the People, For the People. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.