THE VALUE OF ART EDUCATION
Art and creative education is invaluable because it encourages students to think organically and independently, and to explore their own potential. Many contemporary educational systems underestimate the importance of the arts as part of a balanced learning experience, misaligning the subject as “extra” or “niche”—something beneficial to only a small segment of the student population who display exceptional talent. This view is a detriment to students, because it does not allow all avenues for growth and expression.
Art as a practice serves to forge connections on every level. It can be a link between strangers, between a culture and its past, or between an individual and the deeper self. It is a collective language that can express concepts, ideas, emotions, and beliefs that do not always come across through other means. This provides opportunity for more meaningful interaction, dialog, and understanding.
Though there are also well-known benefits to creative play, and to the sorts of tangible skills that can be developed through practical art making, art is far more than mindless playtime. Arts education supports innovation, imagination, and contributes to successes in all subjects. An integrated arts curriculum in schools helps students to reason like artists-- creatively and outside the box. This leads to the discovery of new ways of looking at problems, as well new methods for engaging with the world and with themselves. This ability is universally advantageous, no matter which path a student follows outside the school system.