The Important Role Of The Arts In Education

Is art learning one of your favorite subjects? Art subjects should be in every school. Because art is a must-have for everyone.

Art education itself is a learning process that aims to develop a person's creativity, aesthetic and expressive abilities through various art forms, such as fine arts, music, dance and theater. In art education, students are taught to understand and appreciate art and are trained to create their own works of art. Arts education not only focuses on techniques and skills, but also on developing critical thinking, imagination and communication skills. Through art education, students can learn about the culture, history and social context associated with artworks, thus enriching their experiences and insights. In addition, art education also plays a role in improving students' emotional and social intelligence, it is also expected that students become skilled, culturally aware, sensitive and creative human beings.

Art education is also defined as "education through art," where art is used as a means to achieve overarching educational goals. This concept stems from the views of Herbert Read who wrote the book "Education Through Art," which states that art is seen as a vehicle to achieve comprehensive educational goals.

In Indonesia, art education is one part of the Merdeka Curriculum which is a compulsory subject in schools, from elementary to senior high school. The existence of this subject aims to make students not only use the left hemisphere of the brain, but also the right brain. With this balance in the learning process, it is hoped that it can produce a generation that has broad insights into science and technology, adequate faith, and high character. Thus, art education in schools is a bridge for students to develop talent and creativity through sound, movement, and color.

In the fast-paced digital era, where the demand for mastery of science and technology is getting stronger, we often forget one important aspect of education, namely art. Art, which is often considered a complementary or even less important subject, actually has a crucial role in shaping a well-rounded individual who is ready to face the challenges of the future. Here are some reasons why the arts are important in education:

1. Development of Creativity and Innovation
Art is like a gateway to a free mind. When children learn art, they are encouraged to think outside the box, find new ways to solve problems, and create unique things. These skills are not only useful for becoming a great artist, but also essential for other fields of science, technology, and employment. In this ever-changing world, the ability to think creatively is in high demand.

2. Social Skills Enhancement
Art activities are often done in groups, such as choirs, theaters, or fine arts groups. This helps students learn how to cooperate, communicate, and respect the opinions of others. These social skills are essential, especially in the working world, where collaboration and teamwork are often the key to success.

3. Self-Expression and Emotional Health
Art gives students a way to express themselves. Through art, they can cope with their feelings, stress, and challenges. Art therapy, for example, has been proven to help many people with mental health issues. By giving students the opportunity to be creative, we help them manage their emotions and improve their overall mental health.

4. Improved Academic Performance
Researchers say that students who get into arts activities have better academic performance. Skills gained from the arts, such as discipline, focus, and the ability to work under pressure, can be applied in other subjects. This proves that art is not just about creativity, but can also strengthen academic skills.

5. Preservation of Culture and Identity
Art serves as a bridge between generations and cultures. Through arts education, students learn about their cultural heritage, which strengthens a sense of identity and pride. In the midst of globalization, understanding and appreciating local culture is becoming increasingly important. The arts help the younger generation understand and appreciate their cultural roots.

With such clear benefits, the importance of arts in education cannot be underestimated. The arts are not just about producing works, but also about developing individuals holistically. Therefore, educational institutions should strengthen the arts curriculum and provide more opportunities for students to engage in arts activities. In this way, we not only equip them with practical skills, but also with life values that will shape them into well-rounded individuals and contribute positively to society.