Art was used as a tool in ancient times by showing the masses images that everyone in the culture could relate to or knew of. They would portray themselves as peaceful, yet powerful rulers in times of peace, or they would use cultural figures such as the "archer" that conveyed prowess and patience, such as King Darius did.

It is used in current day politics by the arrangement of seating, viewing, and colors. An example of this is when President George W. Bush was running for his second term he used iconic imagery as a soldier and man of the people to get him elected.