If there is one thing that I am tired of hearing, it’s that art, in any form, whether it be simply creating it or pursuing it as a degree, is not worthwhile. For whatever reason, it seems as though a general consensus surrounding the art community is that art, whether it be visual, performing, etc. is a life path that leads to some form of downfall. It is important to note, though, that the majority of the people who have this opinion are outside of the pro-art bubble. With this in mind, how, then, can the viewpoint be changed?
As with most discrepancies in the world, the differing opinions seem to stem from one thing; education. In this case, the educated are those who act, sing, draw, paint, play an instrument, sculpt, dance; anything that originates with something to create and culminates with a creation. They know the beauty of a craft and appreciate the art of those around them. These educated folks don’t necessarily have to be artists themselves, either (although I am a firm believer that everyone is). They are merely the people who understand the power of imagination, can find the meaningful in chaos, and are able to see what is invisible to others. As Willy Wonka would say, they “are the music makers and the dreamers of dreams.” Those who are uneducated, on the other hand, are simply those who do not understand the simple facts about art; it’s good for the soul and represents the true human feelings of different eras like no other medium. Think about the last time you watched television, listened to music or played a videogame. Although you may not have realized it, you were experiencing someone’s art. When we learn about history in school, information about the past is showcased in photographs, letters and artifacts. Art is everywhere.
So, if art is healthy and represents large numbers of people, why on Earth is it so heavily criticized? I understand that the industry is tough, especially in terms of competition. But, if you are in love with the arts, why live a life of unhappiness working nine to five in a small office vying for promotions with the hope of one day making a lot of money when you could be so happy doing what you love, despite its setbacks? Sometimes in the corporate world, you lose a sense of individualism. You can become a number, lost in the hustle and bustle of a big business lifestyle. Art, however, does not allow that. With art, you cannot get lost within the masses because there are no masses to get lost in. Everyone has different experiences, skills, styles and opinions that drive their actions and thoughts, thus influencing their art.
Don’t get me wrong, I am not trying to diminish the corporate world. The men and women who keep companies running and ensure that goods and services are provided to the nation are incredible. I really, truly mean that. I am not cut out for a corporate position, so I give all the respect in the world to those who are. I just wish the same amount of respect would be given to those who have chosen to create as their profession.
Bottom line: if you are an artist and want to pursue your craft more than anything, do it. If you do not believe in the value that the arts provide and feel the need to burst some bubbles over life choices, please just don’t. As a matter of fact, I challenge you, arts shamers; see a play, visit a gallery, go to a concert – anything where artists are showcasing their talents. Who knows, maybe your opinion will change.