Art - is it worth it?

http://www.seattleu.edu/uploadedImages/ArtSci/About/SU%20AS%20Liberal%20Arts%20Value%20graphic.jpg

Is there real value in art?

One of the little girls who comes to my class said to me that she did not think studying art , as an adult, had much worth as a chosen career, as it did not pay very much. There is truth in this thought.

When I chatted to her mom about it she reminded me that " art is in everything we do, if we are creative, we find the artistic in all of life"

This is also true.

These two conversations got me thinking again about the value of doing art .

One of the reasons I think we think that art is not a real kind of job or choice is because it is not valued in the education system as being really educational. Here I beg to differ.

http://www.ted.com/talks/ken_robinson_says_schools_kill_creativity?language=en

This TED talk by Ken Robinson helps us unpack how things could be different.

I find art a magnificent and real way to help children find creative ways to solve problems. Problem solving develops critical thinking and is relevant for all of life. I think art should be part of every child's school learning experience and if well taught it can open up a world of good education and creative thinking.

In society I think art places a relevant role in that it creates a space for reflection and thought. Art in the city might create spaces of refuge for tired people. Places to sit and enjoy something beautiful.

http://www.ted.com/talks/janet_echelman?language=en

This Ted Talk by Sculptor janet Echelman is a case in point.

Recently I heard a discussion on the radio around why and how young South Africans land up in prison. The two men were ex prisoners and as they told their stories, it unfolded that art had been in instrumental in helping them set a new path and set up something to help others who are released from prison.

Children from deprived environments can find a safe place to express something of their world . It can be a space free from expectations and a fun place where each child is valued for who he or she is. 

Art has value in our society. It can be a space for friendships to develop; where people find a place to explore some creativity and ideas. My adult art class is a small class and in it the women who come fin a space to set aside time for themselves. Time out of the business of life and children. A safe place to build and explore. Art is valuable and has its place in society. It is part of life. Not all of it but a part and I believe it can be helpful.

Let us continue to hold a space for art and value it as useful and worthwhile.