Why Teach Art?

 

Art teachers get to form unique relationships with their students. They see students less often during the year, but get to watch them mature over the years through art class and through the unique personal nature of making art. Sometimes teachers in the arts feel relegated to the sideline – a luxury – but not a serious part of the curriculum. I’m going to share with you why I think they are essential. 

 

A Passion for Making Things

Since the earliest humans first used tools, they have been making things. Some of the things we make are practical, others are purely aesthetic, and some are both. Many times, all that remains of an ancient culture is what they have created, such as architecture, sculptures, pottery or mosaics. Art teachers help all students appreciate the world around them by understanding the human impulse to create.

 

Visual Literacy for a Digital World

We are bombarded by images every day through advertisements, streaming content, social media and our environment. The visual arts encourage careful observation and analysis of the world around us. Art teachers can help all students learn to navigate our complex world of visual communication.

 

A Different Kind of Learning

In addition to developing craft and understanding the art world, students learn to engage and persist, envision, express, observe, reflect and explore (Hetland et al., 2007). Students learn by doing – solving problems, using their imagination and actively engaging with materials. Students are encouraged to talk about their artwork and the work of others, and they learn how to give and receive feedback. These skills translate into adults who are able to communicate effectively and think critically.

Hetland, L., Winner, E., Veenema, S., and Sheridan, K. (2007). Studio thinking: The real benefits of visual arts education. Teachers College Press.