In a strict sense, we associate maps with geographical space, but in a broad sense we understand them as a visualization of relationship between elements in any kind of »space« (e.g. realistic or made up geographical region, different cultural, political, social spaces etc.), which is achieved through the use of reduction of elements, change of scale, schematization, stylization, simplification of elements and generalization of data. Because we use artistic elements, artistic variables and composition principals to achieve this, map is an artistic phenomenon. In the theoretical part of the research the study of maps as an artistic phenomenon is covered: a.) in different contexts and functions in which they appear, b.) as visualizations, c.) as an artistic-linguistic phenomenon. Creation of maps, as well as response to them, triggers decisions that require cooperation of different mental and sensory processes, which include perception, memory, visual notion, verbal thinking and imagination. The map is conditional on the understanding of the contents of the showed space or phenomenon, but certain understanding also entrenches or establishes it. The second part of the research included dealing with a map as an artistic-didactic problem in Art class in the 6th grade of primary school with an action research, which has focused on the study and promotion of development of abilities of visualization, the spatial awareness and imagination of children. In class, which I lead, their teacher observed. The research covered three action steps, each within one artistic task. These were based on the concept of art (artistic variables, the process of abstracting, art elements, drawing fine art) related to the curriculum for Art class. They all included presentation of some space on the map. Modifications were associated with increasing complexity of the tasks based on artistic motive and techniques, and improvement of artistic-pedagogical practice based on teaching methods and forms of work. The findings of the research are designed on the basis of the interpretation of the results of observation, ongoing evaluation, analysis of artwork and reflections on the individual action steps and final evaluation of the research. Research results constitute a contribution to research of artistic abilities of children in visualization and artistic articulation of relations about space.
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