Answer:

artforms

AnswerCrossword Clue
ARTFORMSPoetry and painting
ARTFORMSNovels, plays, etc.
ARTFORMSSonatas and sonnets, e.g.
ARTFORMSDance and film
ARTFORMSSculpture and collage
ARTFORMSPainting and ballet
ARTFORMSVarious creative mediums ... or a hint to variations found in the shaded squares