Art has a profound influence on society by shaping individuals’ ideas, imparting ideals, and conveying experiences across time and space. Research indicates that art plays a role in shaping one’s fundamental sense of self. Forms of art such as painting, sculpture, music, literature, and others are often viewed as repositories of a society’s collective memory, capturing emotions and experiences beyond factual historical records. In essence, art serves as a form of communication, enabling individuals from diverse cultures and eras to connect through visual, auditory, and narrative experiences. Moreover, art is a potent tool for instigating societal change, providing a voice to politically or socially marginalized populations.

Songs, films, and literature can evoke powerful emotions, motivating individuals to take action. The intricate relationship between art and the human brain has been a subject of long-standing fascination for researchers. For instance, a study conducted by Newcastle University in 2013 found that exposure to modern visual art positively impacted the well-being of elderly individuals in nursing homes. Art also extends its practical impact on society, with a demonstrated positive correlation between students’ engagement in theatre or music activities and their academic performance in subjects like arithmetic and reading. The National Art Education Association emphasizes the value of art as a creative outlet, satisfying the human desire for self-expression and fulfillment, while also contributing economically through employment opportunities in art creation, administration, and dissemination.

Introduction of the Artifact

A recent exploration into cultural artifacts led to the discovery and subsequent discussion of “Nye’s Gate A-4” by Naomi Shihab. This paper delves into the questions posed by my brother, John, regarding this artifact.

HUM FPX 1150 Assessment 4 Creative Process of Creating and Interpreting Cultural Artifacts

In Naomi Shihab Nye’s work, “Gate A-4,” the author recounts an incident at an airport gate where her flight is delayed, and she chooses to assist a hesitant Palestinian woman. This narrative underscores the significance of kindness and compassion even in challenging environments, highlighting the potential for small acts of compassion to foster connections among people.

Reflection on the Artifact

Upon reflection, the main theme of Naomi Shihab Nye’s “Gate A-4” revolves around the author’s past encounter with a Palestinian woman at an airport. The story emphasizes the transformative power of caring for one another, finding joy, and building connections through simple acts of kindness. Nye’s narrative serves as a reminder to maintain an open heart, appreciate shared humanity, and bridge gaps between individuals by focusing on common ground.

Artifact’s Influence on People’s Thinking and Behavior in the Future

Naomi Shihab Nye’s “Gate A-4” demonstrates how the narrative of a divided world can bring people together, fostering collaboration, respect, and a shared vision for a brighter future. The artifact encourages individuals to pay greater attention to one another, promoting understanding and unity in the face of societal challenges.

Use of Creative Process for Problem-Solving, Relationship-Building, and Social-Awareness Skills

Naomi Shihab Nye’s creative process, as described in her own words, exemplifies problem-solving, relationship-building, and social-awareness skills. The narrative illustrates the power of language and empathy in overcoming barriers, fostering connections, and creating a sense of shared humanity. This approach can serve as a model for developing self-consciousness and societal awareness, encouraging individuals to actively engage in helping others.

Interpretive Process as a Collaborative Process

The interpretive research approach, akin to the collaborative technique, involves researchers immersing themselves in the lives of participants to understand and give voice to diverse perspectives. In discussions about the artifact, shared and differing interpretations were noted, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the interpretive process.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the artifact highlights the reciprocal relationship between culture and communication, illustrating how cultural influences shape individuals’ behavior and, in turn, how communication styles can impact culture. Naomi Shihab Nye’s “Gate A-4” serves as a testament to the transformative power of art in fostering understanding, compassion, and connection in diverse societies.

References

Marchi, L. (2019). Engaging with Otherness in Everyday Life: Naomi Shihab Nye’s De-familiarizing Poems. In Thinking with the Familiar in Contemporary Literature and Culture’Out of the Ordinary’ (pp. 119-133). Brill.

Nye, N. S. (2007). Gate 4-a. Tikkun, 22(4), 32-32.

Veissière, S. P., Constant, A., Ramstead, M. J., Friston, K. J., & Kirmayer, L. J. (2020). Thinking through other minds: A variational approach to cognition and culture. Behavioral and brain sciences, 43.

Wiener, M., Gattringer, R., & Strehl, F. (2020). Collaborative open foresight-A new approach for inspiring discontinuous and sustainability-oriented innovations. Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 155, 119370.