Art is a way to learn about ourselves. Through a variety of artistic modes, we can communicate our thoughts and feelings. By tapping into non-verbal forms of communication, we give ourselves vast and powerful tools of self expression. By keeping a sketchbook for visual ideas and written thoughts, the artist can document and reflect upon his or her past, present and future. Through reactions from an audience, the artist can learn about their relationship to his or her society.
Art gives humanity the ability to understand human experiences. Through art criticism we can interpret the artistÕs point of view and our own basis for critical judgement. Art gives us an unique glimpse at the artist and the culture he or she belongs to. Compassion for others is obtained by learning to appreciate their art. Through an analysis of art we can learn and appreciate other cultures.
Visual arts teach us methods of problem solving. The analysis of the problem at hand, brainstorming, organization of resources, execution of task, critical analysis of progress, and the final evaluation of the completed project are part of every art assignment. After each studio experience the student can incorpoarte what he or she learned in an everyday context. Knowledge and practice in artistic problem solving enables us to use a variety of analytical, expressive, and developmental devices in every situation throughout life. During oneÕs own life, decisions will have to be made where there are no standard solutions.
Art in the curriculum is an interdisciplinary link. While learning the production, history, analysis, and aesthetics of art we have the ability to incorporate current social and political issues. Furthermore, other disciplines of art, literature and the sciences can be part of every lesson. A role of the visual art educator is to relate the body of visual art to other areas of knowledge. Art is not an island unto itself; art is the water that connects all islands of knowledge.
Art is a way to fill a void in the lives of children. Personal and social issues such as: class, race, gender, abuse, education, body image, alienation etc., can cause children to feel empty inside. Art can fill the void that is often filled with substance abuse, criminal activities, and violence to others. Art can fill this void with a sense of self- worth. Art fosters the development of the entire child. As reasoning, imagination, intuition, and skills are develped, mutiple forms of literacy are gradually constructed into unparalleled forms of expression and communication.
Art in the curriculum teaches students a vital and unique way of thinking that can only be acheived through education in the arts. As education in math and language teaches thinking in a linear and sequential mode, the arts teach us that a spontaneous flash of wisdom is just as valid a source of knowledge. Through art education we enable ourselves to bridge the gap between verbal and nonverbal forms of knowledge and communication.
As our world becomes increasingly technological, our environment blasts us with sensory data. Now, more than ever, the ability to preceive, interpret, understand, and evaluate stimuli is crucial. We must give our future generations the skill required to decipher a world full of images and symbols.