The “earth” without “art” is just “eh”
The starving artist concept has been ingrained in our minds since we were born. We have all seen a trumpet player in the subway station or an actor living on the streets asking for quarters. We have all also been warned by our parents that this would happen to us if we choose that same route in the arts.
We are advised to follow the STEM (Science Technology Engineering Math) path instead of the arts because the perception that someone who is an arts major will be unsuccessful and is less important to society. When I chose to take art as an elective instead of doubling up in science or language, my friends were confused. They didn’t understand that art was a legitimate, integral part of the IB curriculum and not just a class where you could get an A+ for just showing up.
A child is considered stupid when they are unable to succeed in math or science but is considered normal if they are unable to succeed in the arts. But this idea isn’t just social stigma, it’s a belief upheld by our school system. In order to graduate from high school, a student is required to take at least three times as many credits for math and english classes than visual and performing arts classes. Not only that, but American public schools even weigh physical education credits more important than visual performing arts credits – twice as much.
If I remember correctly, high school is supposed to prepare you for your future career; I am sure that most people aren’t going to look back and think “wow, learning how to correctly use a protractor to draw a 30 degree angle really helped me get this job.” On the contrary, finding your passion while in a theater or chorus class will not only help you widen your horizons for your future, but will also provide you the skills to pursue a career.
Without people who study the arts, the world would be void of any music or movies, or even clothes. Just because a career in the arts might not be bounded by the same box as other jobs doesn’t make it less demanding or important. So the next time a friend or classmate says the arts is their passion, support them instead of degrading their choices.
