Anthropomorphic imagery is the artistic representation of non-human entities- such as animals, objects, or deities-with human characteristics, traits, or behaviors
. This can include giving them human form, emotions, intentions, or actions. Two possible purposes for this type of art are:
- To make the unfamiliar or non-human more relatable and understandable to human viewers by humanizing these entities, thereby evoking empathy and connection
- To convey complex ideas, emotions, or narratives in a visually accessible and engaging way, often allowing artists and writers to explore human qualities through a different lens or to teach moral, spiritual, or social lessons
Anthropomorphic imagery thus serves both as a bridge between human experience and the non-human world and as a creative tool for storytelling and expression.