As a future art educator, the topic I chose to expand on is a huge influence on me. The fact that art programs are being excluded more and more everyday is a serious situation that is easily overlooked. To most people, the word "art" means fancy, abstract Picasso paintings or a clunky, weird-looking sculpture outside of a museum. What most people do not realize is that the word "art" applies to all artistic elements such as chorus, band, and of course art classes. When you think about music, it is an art. When you praise your favorite bands or artists, it is not for a random reason. It is because they use notes, rhythms, and lyrics to lure you into their song. They speak to you and help you relate their songs to your personal life. Without music, I am sure we would all have bad days more frequently. Paintings, drawings, and other forms of art have the same effect. The fact that we have so many great artistic options out there to seek, it does not cross our minds that if we cut a simple one or two programs from a school, it will affect our futures. Do you think any artist, music related or craft related became so successful without any form of learning, practice, or class? No. If so, there are very few. Young children and young adults need to always be exposed to this form of self healing we call art. Without these easily removed classes, our world would drastically change.
Possible Questions:
- What makes any other subject more important than art?
- Who makes the decision to cut these programs?
- When parents are already paying to rent instruments, is there really a significant cost of keeping such a class?
- Don't you think it is healthy to give students a chance to use their minds and imaginations to release the everyday tensions of a school day/life?
- By cutting these programs, are we sending out the message to children that artistic occupations are frowned upon or worthless?
I hope to get people to start thinking seriously about these questions. If there is any form of input you would like to add, feel free! :)
-Natalie
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