By Alleen Erchoff-Costet
During your high school experience, have you ever taken art classes? How important do you think those classes were for your future? Education in the arts is key for develop-ment of students’ minds, promoting critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving skills, self-expression, and a better understanding of the world, which is essential for educational success and life beyond the classroom.
In a way, art can almost be a history class. Studying art history can bring historical awareness and cultural understanding to students, as well as increase observation levels. When students study history, they get a deeper understanding of the role of art in society and culture. According to Cultivate, an art focused website, focusing on the history of art opens a new look into the world of art. It can enhance someone’s understanding and cultural awareness, and it allows students to understand different cultures’ values, customs, traditions, and beliefs. Quoting from the Cultivate site, the National Endowment of the Arts states, “Individuals who are exposed to art and cultural experiences are more likely to have greater tolerance and empathy towards other cultures.” Students can explore a more open-minded perspective of the world around them, which is an important skill in today’s society.
Creative expression helps students in managing stress, anxiety, and fosters teamwork, communication, and empathy through collaborative art projects, addressing social issues and promoting cultural understanding. According to the San Diego Workforce Partnership, art has significant effects on our bodies, such as reducing blood pressure, boosting the immune system, improving brain cognition, and combating inflammation. During the school day, we all need breaks and for some people, educational art might just be the thing. Whether it’s an art or music class, some students may find happiness in that class. A student could be having a stressful day at school, but being able to go to a class, such as art, gives them a small break to relax during the day.
Artistic skills, including creativity, problem-solving, and visual communication, are crucial in design, marketing, and technology, enabling companies to effectively communicate brand stories, adapt to trends, and innovate. Creativity and critical thinking skills are crucial for personal and professional success, fostering adaptability, resilience, and innovation, and should be increasingly valued in education and workplaces. The arts aid students in mastering techniques such as layout, color, perspective, and balance.The arts can also involve teamwork and collaboration, creating stronger bonds with your coworkers or peers. Art has the potential to transform our perception of the world, introducing us to fresh ideas and values.
As a high school student myself, I find art classes very enjoyable. Being able to express yourself through art is something that I find interesting. People tell stories through their art, and people can interpret their own point of view on the art. You don’t have to be a “good artist” to make art, because art is whatever you interpret it to be. However, I notice that a lot of other students think an art class is an “easy class,” or just dont take the arts seriously. Sometimes, if the class isn’t labeled as an “honors class” or “advanced,” people will try to stay away from it, so they can have more college credits. Because of this reason, some kids won’t have time in their schedules to take an art class, or even volunteer for art projects.
Education in the arts is crucial for development, achievement, success in academics, creativity, collaboration, and more. It helps students learn techniques like layout, color, perspective, and balance, while also bringing cultural awareness to students around the world. It gives students a way to express themselves through stories or design, preparing students for a brighter future ahead of them.
Alleen Erchoff-Costet is a Spring Grove High School student, one of 15 area students participating in the Journal Writing Project, now in its 26th year.
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