Aegean civilization is a general term for the Bronze Age civilizations of Greece that arose and flourished c. 3000–1000 BCE around the Aegean Sea. They include Crete, the Cyclades, the Greek mainland south from Thessaly, including the Peloponnese, and Macedonia, Thrace, and western Anatolia. 

The ancient Aegean region, which includes modern-day Greece and the surrounding islands, has a rich artistic tradition that spans thousands of years. The art of this region was heavily influenced by the culture, beliefs, and everyday life of the people who lived there.

One of the earliest examples of Aegean art is the Cycladic figurines, which date back to the third millennium BCE. These small, abstracted, and simplified figures were typically made from marble and represented the human form. The Minoans and Mycenaeans, who flourished on the islands and Peloponnese respectively, also left a great legacy of art.

Minoan art, which emerged on the island of Crete around 2800 BCE, is known for its vibrant colors, intricate designs, and depictions of nature, animals, and humans. Frescoes found in the Palace of Knossos, for instance, showcase detailed and colorful scenes of life in the Minoan world.

In contrast, Mycenaean art, which emerged on the Greek mainland during the second millennium BCE, was characterized by its emphasis on military exploits and death. This is visible in the elaborate funerary masks, armor, pottery, and frescoes uncovered in the royal tombs at Mycenae.

Greek art further evolved during the Dark Ages that followed, leading to the emergence of monumental styles - such as the Archaic and Classical Greek periods. The focus of Greek art shifted from the glorification of death and militarism to an emphasis on idealized human form and proportion, and the portrayal of gods, myths as well as scenes from daily life.

Overall, the art of the ancient Aegean region represents a range of styles, motifs, and themes that reflect the unique history, culture, and beliefs of the people who lived there. The legacy of this region, particularly of Greek art, continues to inspire art lovers and creators around the world today.