Despite art’s prevalence in history and our lives, some people still fail to see the importance of it. They might see art as boring, or unnecessary, not being able to understand the expression/message of types of art and certain pieces. While some can’t see the significance art has, the prevailing opinion remains– Art is necessary.
Many people say art improves their mood. I think art is a really important part of people’s lives because it makes people feel different emotions. “Seeing art around makes me feel happier like in a classroom. I feel more excited to learn in that type of environment if it is there,” comments Ella Heisler, a Junior at San Mateo High. Scientific studies have proven that the act of appreciating and being surrounded by art significantly improves our quality of life.
Though gone unnoticed by many, different types of art surround our everyday lives. For example, photography. People viewing and taking photos every day is a form of art. Other types of casual art that are in our lives are paintings around us, doodling or sketching, designs on clothes, etc. These everyday interactions with various forms of art highlight how art is a built-in part of our daily experiences, reinforcing the idea that we do need art in our lives.
Another reason we need art in our lives is because it is a key way for self-expression. It allows people to explore and communicate what they are feeling and helps them express it. “People use art to express themselves or to escape reality,” Senior student Honorio Gonzalez explains. Art not only facilitates personal expression and emotional exploration but also offers escape and relief from the pressures of everyday life.
Additionally, art affects everyone in unique, significant ways. “I am a firm believer that art is an essential part of not just education, but just culturally in life and humanity. I thrive when I am involved in artistic endeavors and for a student like me with ADHD, who struggled sometimes during strictly academic classes, I was able to not just find a fun place, but a place where I gained confidence and found my purpose, which was in a theater classroom,” Ms. Wozniak, the Drama teacher at SMHS, explains. Creative projects can help us learn about ourselves and find purpose.
While opinions on art may vary, it is clear that art plays a significant role in making our lives better. Its presence enhances our daily experiences and lets people express themselves and their experiences, proving that we do need art in our lives.