The Tribune

By Deidre M. Bastian

It is typical human nature to admire beauty around us. We commonly associate art with a painting or sculpture displayed in a museum or art gallery, but it is everywhere, in many forms, and holds significant value in our lives.

What is art? A colleague recently defined art as the “keystone of humanity”. Art is no doubt difficult to describe, but in literal terms it expresses one’s feelings through any object or medium, such as paper, music, colours, technology, magic and photography.

You might say: “Art is in a constant state of change”. You might even say: “Art is subjective and means something different to every single person on earth.” But any type of art has a tendency to deeply move our soul, so most masterpieces that we see in museums are a silent testimony to that.

Art is a medium through which we express our emotions, intellect and ideas. It is through art that we can communicate to the world our inner feelings and our creativity, which only exists within our minds.

Likewise, it could also be viewed as abstract, realistic, naturalistic, conceptual and inspirational. Thus it is agreeable that we are surrounded by art, and also rely upon it in our daily routine.

Meanwhile, technology will continue to develop, and we cannot judge integrity by the tools used in its creation. One does not have to be a painter to be an artist. Equally, whether art is created with a brush, chipped out with a hammer, shot with a camera or printed with a computer, it is evidently meant to challenge, expand and push the boundaries.

For example: When we enter a beautiful home, it is difficult not to find rhythm and harmony in the way furniture is placed; photographs adorn a wall, paintings hung above the sofa or any particular artifact placed in a corner or centrepiece on a coffee table etc.

Art can make people happy. When you look at a photograph or painting you have chosen to hang on your living room wall, you feel happy because it creates the atmosphere that is personable to you. Nonetheless, you may be wondering why art is important to our daily lives, as you can survive just fine without it.

While art may not be a basic need, it can add a little joy to our lives, as it stimulates different parts of our brain with a whole gamut of positive emotions. Yet some art forms are very dark, and can cause disturbing emotions or even depression. Ultimately, we can choose what kind of art form we wish to be surrounded by.

Moreover, Art and Craft Education provides a platform for children to express themselves and explore. Not all children are artistically or academically sound, so encouraging them to discover the artist in themselves may help their growth in other fields.

Research and statistics confirm that art education strengthens student problem-solving and critical thinking skills, their academic achievement and cooperative decision-making, self-confidence, discipline, persistence and leadership abilities. It teaches our students to be more tolerant and open through multicultural and historical perspectives.

Even though art encompasses a number of disciplines - from painting to sculpture and dance, there are many different forms, which can be divided into two classes: visual arts and performing arts.

Visual arts include graphic design, paintings, sculpture, literature, calligraphy, photography and architecture, while performing arts are all forms of dance, music, theater, opera and films.

Art is a symbolic representation of ideas and thoughts, and has the power to move us beyond boundaries. I personally feel it is a magnificent and vital part of our soul that transcends beauty.

Finally, what is obvious is worth repeating: I also believe, through the course of teaching art design, that art can serve to lead a society into new ways of thinking.

So, why do we need art? The truth is, art is one of the greatest tools to help our ultimate potential come alive, despite the fact that it tells ‘the’ story and is interpreted differently by a diverse people. Even though to some art means absolutely nothing, I view it as a way to reshape our understanding of freedom and self-determination.

Until we meet again, fill your life with memories rather than regrets. Enjoy life and stay on top of your game!

NB: Columnist welcomes feedback at deedee21bastian@gmail.com

Ms Bastian is a trained graphic designer who has qualifications of M.Sc., B.Sc., A.Sc. She has trained at institutions such as: Miami Lakes Technical Centre, Success Training College, College of the Bahamas, Nova Southeastern University, Learning Tree International, Langevine International and Synergy Bahamas