Art history, also known as visual culture, is the study of visual art forms and their historical contexts. It involves examining the artistic techniques, styles, and cultural influences that shape the production of art. Synonyms for art history include art appreciation, art criticism, art theory, and aesthetics. Art appreciation focuses on experiencing and valuing art, while art criticism involves analyzing and evaluating works of art. Art theory explores the philosophical and theoretical underpinnings of art and aesthetics deals with the nature of beauty and its relationship to art. Whether it's through the lens of art history, visual culture, art appreciation, criticism, theory, or aesthetics, the study of art provides a rich and engaging avenue for exploring human creativity and the history of human society.