By Kelly Maue
March is Arts in Our Schools Month, a national observance where arts education takes center stage. Schools put student talent in the spotlight and showcase accomplishments in visual arts, dance, theatre, music, and more.
But unfortunately, arts education is too often viewed as non-essential or “extra.” Research shows, however, that art courses offer numerous benefits, including building confidence, creativity, and critical thinking skills, and are associated with academic success.
Art curriculum can help with self-esteem. Projects and performances give students the means to express themselves in a safe, non-verbal way. Decision-making, taking risks, and achieving success are all keys to gaining self-confidence, independence, and a positive sense of self.
Immersion in the arts can also help ignite the imagination. This creative thinking, or thinking “outside the box,” sharpens problem-solving abilities. The act of observation, along with attention to detail, adaptation to challenges, and decision-making, are components of critical thinking, which is a necessary life skill.
Art helps students connect and can improve social skills. Working together on projects, communicating, and expressing ideas all help form a sense of community. Art can transcend boundaries. In turn, this exposure to others helps develop empathy, plus an appreciation of others. Art helps us broaden our understanding of the world.
Another invaluable outcome of an arts education is its effect on mental health. Making, participating in, or even observing art can help relieve stress and anxiety. Art is a positive outlet that can offer a sense of purpose or belonging. And making art can boost mood by releasing serotonin and endorphins, which are hormones that reduce pain and stress.
The arts can help foster a sense of community, as seen in revitalization efforts in neighborhoods. Reclaiming and improving areas through art adds value and a sense of pride. One such effort in North St. Louis, Beyond the Walls, is an outdoor mural project that helped turn abandoned buildings into beautiful, inspirational works of art.
Education in the arts can help improve student learning and overall academic performance. The National Endowment for the Arts reports that arts education is linked to positive academic outcomes and social and emotional development. Key areas of improvement include math, science, and language arts. It all circles back to greater aptitude for critical thinking.
The arts are essential for a well-rounded education. Even though the field may rarely produce professional artists, it’s the exposure to the arts that matters.
HEC Media’s multiple Emmy Award-winning magazine show, Spotlight, recently devoted an episode to arts education in action. Stories include how the historic Muny theatre is working with local schools to mentor future performers and backstage professionals; a collaborative Rain Barrel Project where art and environmental action collide; an Eco-artist who helps students with a hands-on project; and Modern American Dance Co (MADCO) helps young students bring books to life through original dance.
An arts education can increase happiness and satisfaction. And while it may not be vital for mere human existence, it certainly makes life more enjoyable.
