The chapter on Social Responsibility in Secondary Art Education in ReVisions was very concise and summarized our duty as educators in involve Social Justice in the class room well. I particularly enjoyed the six major assumptions listed by theorists Miller and Seller and I thought there were some very poignant thoughts in the chapter over all. Here are some gems that struck me in particular:
“Art has too often be equaled recreation.”
“Personal growth and social development are related.”
“Teachers and Students should be asking ‘why is art?’ and ‘what is art for’ rather than ‘what is art?’ Art has become more of a social study. But this need not mean that art is not being made in schools–it is. The issue making art that matters, personally and socially, and designing for real human needs.”
To me the concept of “art matters,” is especially powerful catch phrase that I think is an idea that we should always hold close to our intentions as art educators. I think the question, “why does art matter?” is daunting and difficult to answer but I enjoy thinking about it.
