The Heart is a Symbol of Love, Emotion, and Artistic Expression -

Heart symbol for love, emotion, and Artistic expression of one's feelings

The heart is one of the most universally recognized symbols of love and affection. The Heart is a Symbol of Love, Emotion, and Artistic Expression. Given its deep cultural and historical significance, it’s no surprise that it frequently appears in art lessons. But did you know that the heart symbol dates back to ancient times?

In Hindu culture, the heart was seen as a central connection between the universe and humanity. By the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, the heart shape as we know it today had taken form. Over time, it became an iconic motif in religious art, playing cards, Valentine’s Day messages, and even the modern digital emojis we use in texts.

Where Did the Heart Shape Come From?

Despite its universal presence, the origins of the heart symbol remain a unknown. One theory suggests that it was inspired by the silphium plant, which was widely used in ancient Greece for medicinal purposes, cooking, and even as a form of birth control. This plant was so highly sought after that it was harvested to extinction. However, artifacts from the time depict silphium leaves in a shape remarkably similar to today’s heart symbol.

Other scholars believe the symbol may have been influenced by the shapes of ivy leaves, water lilies, or even certain anatomical features of the human body (we’ll leave that to your imagination!).

Interestingly, some of the earliest artistic depictions of the heart show it being held upside down. Ancient scholars also described the heart as having three chambers, which could explain the two rounded lobes and pointed bottom. By the 15th century, the familiar dent at the top of the heart became more pronounced, and the symbol was flipped to its modern orientation. Not long after, the heart became synonymous with romantic love, appearing on Valentine’s Day cards and eventually becoming a fixture in popular culture.

Playing cards with the king of hearts — King of Hearts, from a set of Piquet Cards, Creator Claude Fayolle, Hand-colored-woodcut, Late 18th-19th Century

Bringing the Heart Symbol into Art Education

Now that we’ve explored the history of the symbolic heart, let’s look at a creative way to use it in the classroom. While many art lessons incorporate the heart, this activity encourages students to be introspective, express vulnerability, and take creative risks.

Art is a powerful tool for communication, and this lesson allows students to reflect on their emotions, memories, and personal experiences in a visual way. Be prepared for students who may choose to share deeper feelings through their artwork by creating a supportive environment where they feel comfortable expressing themselves.

Guiding Students Through Self-Reflection

Start by having students respond to thought-provoking questions. Give them scrap paper to jot down their ideas before they begin drawing:

When I say the word “heart,” what or who comes to mind?
When you hear the word “love,” what or who do you think about?
What is your happiest memory?
What is a memory that hurt?
What helped you through that difficult moment?
What object, place, or experience makes you feel safe and happy?
Where do you feel most loved?
What colors do you love, and what do they remind you of?
What colors do you dislike, and why?
What are your biggest fears?
If you could have a superpower, what would it be?
What animal would you like to be and why?
What food or drink brings you comfort?
Who do you look up to and why?
If you could change one thing in the world, what would it be?

Creating Heartfelt Art

Once students have reflected on their emotions, they will create a personal heart design that represents their inner world:

Draw a large heart—this will symbolize their own heart, filled with emotions, memories, and experiences.
Inside the heart, they will draw or write the positive things they want to hold onto: happy memories, people they love, dreams, and inspiring words. They can divide sections of the heart or let their ideas flow naturally.
Around the heart, they will create a visual barrier—rays of light, patterns, or protective symbols—to represent their inner strength.
In the space outside the heart, they will illustrate challenges, fears, or struggles—things they want to overcome or improve.
Add color using a variety of media. Encourage students to explore how different materials (markers, watercolors, oil pastels) can enhance the emotions in their artwork.

The Power of Artistic Reflection

The goal of this lesson is for students to recognize that their hearts hold more joy and beauty than darkness. Through organizing their thoughts and emotions visually, they may gain a new perspective on their experiences. The Heart is a Symbol of Love, Emotion, and Artistic Expression.

As they work, gently guide them to reflect on the uplifting aspects of life. This process not only fosters creativity but also promotes emotional awareness, resilience, and gratitude.

Art is more than just a visual experience, it’s a way to process emotions, tell stories, and connect with ourselves and others. By exploring the heart symbol in this meaningful way, students will walk away with more than just a beautiful piece of art—they’ll leave with a deeper understanding of their own hearts.

For further heart themed art lessons and activities check out the following: