They are a means of caring for and preserving the life of the human spirit. Because the nation's population is more diverse, understanding and communication across nations and cultures is essential. Students need to understand the function and structure of the visual arts, the relationship to human history and cultures, and the connections between the visual arts and other disciplines. It is studied for itself and for the profound effect it has on facilitating the learning of spatial concepts needed in architecture and geometry, and on the creativity which is essential to development in science and engineering. Additionally, the study of visual arts assists consumers in understanding how art and its elements affect people and how they are used commercially to influence the cognition, behavior, and the environment.
Art education makes a unique contribution to a student's experience.
It facilitates the ability to communicate in a nonverbal manner and to develop and expand problem solving skills. It fosters the development of craftsmanship and encourages perception, reflection, and production. The act of creating art involves people on many levels of thinking and modes of learning. It offers learning opportunities to students of all mental and physical ability levels and ages. The eye, hand, and mind act in concert in the creation of art.