This text is designed to help teachers interpret the National Curriculum Orders for Art, providing a series of examples using artists' work to inform students. It draws together the two attainment targets for art and shows how closely they are connected. Using the concept of universal themes, the author examines a range of artist's work from the National Gallery and other works from the British Museum and local environments. He shows how these themes can be used to structure study and inspire students' creativity. Each theme is explored by asking about the content, form, process and mood. Students are encouraged to ask searching questions about the pictures they see and to build their critical skills together with their practical ability.