Local art and its impact on community pride has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately 3-4 times annually over the past five years. This topic intersects with broader themes of culture, identity, and urban development, making it particularly relevant for test-takers. Similar to the role of public art in urban development, this subject requires candidates to analyze complex social dynamics.
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that local art (such as paintings, music, and handicrafts) plays a crucial role in developing and maintaining community pride. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This question requires:
- Clear position on the relationship between local art and community pride
- Well-structured arguments supporting your stance
- Relevant examples demonstrating the impact of local art
- Balanced discussion if choosing a partial agreement
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
Just as importance of public art in fostering community identity shapes urban landscapes, local artistic expressions serve as powerful catalysts for community pride and cohesion. I strongly agree that local art plays a vital role in developing and maintaining community spirit, primarily through cultural preservation and collective identity formation.
Local art forms function as living repositories of community heritage. Traditional handicrafts, folk music, and indigenous paintings capture the unique stories, values, and experiences that define a community’s identity. In Vietnam, for example, traditional water puppet performances not only entertain but also preserve centuries-old legends and customs, fostering a sense of continuity with the past and pride in cultural uniqueness.
Furthermore, local art creates spaces for community engagement and shared experiences. When communities participate in art festivals, music performances, or craft exhibitions, they forge stronger social bonds and develop collective memories. The annual lantern-making competitions in Hoi An, Vietnam, exemplify how artistic traditions can unite residents while attracting global appreciation, enhancing local pride.
Similar to how impact of street art on city culture transforms urban spaces, local art contributes to economic development and community recognition. Artistic traditions often become sources of sustainable tourism and income, elevating the community’s status and self-esteem. For instance, the intricate weaving traditions of Indian communities not only preserve cultural heritage but also provide economic opportunities, reinforcing pride through international recognition.
In conclusion, local art serves as a fundamental pillar in building and maintaining community pride through cultural preservation, social cohesion, and economic development. Its impact extends beyond mere aesthetic value to shape community identity and resilience.
Traditional craftspeople teaching young community members ancient artistic techniques
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
I agree that local art is important for community pride. It helps people feel good about their culture and history.
First, local art shows the special things about a community. When people make traditional handicrafts or music, they keep old customs alive. For example, in my city, old people teach young people how to make traditional pottery. This makes everyone proud of their skills.
Also, local art brings people together. When there are art festivals or music shows, people meet and share happy times. This makes the community stronger. In my country, we have many festivals where people show their art and everyone enjoys it together.
Local art also helps make money for the community. Tourists like to buy local art and watch performances. This helps artists earn money and makes the community famous. For example, many tourists visit my town to buy traditional paintings.
However, sometimes young people don’t care about local art. They prefer modern things. But I think local art is still very important for community pride.
In conclusion, I believe local art is very important because it helps keep tradition alive, brings people together, and helps the community make money.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Analysis:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization with well-developed ideas
- Effective use of examples
- Strong cohesion and coherence
- Natural integration of topic-specific vocabulary
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis:
- Basic but clear arguments
- Simple but accurate language
- Limited range of complex structures
- Some repetition in vocabulary
- Basic examples without detailed elaboration
Key Vocabulary
- catalyst (n) /ˈkætəlɪst/ – something that causes activity between two or more persons or forces
- indigenous (adj) /ɪnˈdɪdʒɪnəs/ – naturally existing in a place or country rather than arriving from another place
- cohesion (n) /kəʊˈhiːʒn/ – the act or state of staying together
- intricate (adj) /ˈɪntrɪkət/ – having many small parts or details that all work together
- resilience (n) /rɪˈzɪliəns/ – the ability to recover quickly from difficult conditions
We encourage readers to practice writing their own essays on this topic and share them in the comments section for feedback. Future exam topics might include variations such as the role of public art installations or the impact of digital art on community identity.
