I begin my blogging journal with the question, is art important - because some us might not think it is not. So for those that might think it is not important - that it is a luxury that some cannot need or afford, I respectfully disagree, here are some of my arguments.
One thing we have in-common as humans is a desire to communicate, express ourselves, and we do this through drawing, painting, singing, dancing or writing. Learning those skills are essential for children. It helps with language, motor (eye/hand) coordination, and how they learn. It has been proven that children exposed or participating in art projects throughout their lives are four (4) times more likely to be advanced academically, while it helps them cope with their circumstances - both in the past and the present.
In addition it helps all of us develop soft skills like adapting, being creative, or even having the ability to collaborate/work with others, and this alone makes us better human beings.
Art and history cross over as we learn about previous generations and eras. Through paintings and writings we learn about what others before us have faced, and how they overcame obstacles. Hopefully learning from the past makes us better humans, and contributes to what we are today. By learning about the past we learn to understand why we are what we are today. Art will inspire us to be better.
If art is controversial or even groundbreaking it might even spark healthy conversations leading us to a better society. We become more engaged, we volunteer - and maybe even vote!
Art provide opportunities to gather with other peoples from other countries. It boosts economies locally, regionally, nationally, internationally, and strengthens the bonds between people. Art provides economic growth leading to jobs, revenue and growth.
Simply stated Art (in my opinion) is very important!