“Practical” careers such as positions in medicine, engineering, aeronautics, and several other fields within the walls of science typically prevail when it comes to young adults choosing a path in life. Whether it is the safety of a large salary or a genuine interest in the subject, they tend to overshadow the arts.
Although one does not stand above the other, “impractical” careers deserve the recognition necessary to dismiss the negative assumptions.
Senior Luke Dunphy, despite his intentions to enter a different profession, has been an actor since the fifth grade and remains well aware of what the arts contribute to society.
“Artistic expression has always been a very important part in communicating ideas and presenting public issues. Art often has a message,” said Dunphy.
Art serves as a voice for those who struggle to use their own, offering a path of self discovery and a connection with the world. It is a difficult concept for most to grasp, as everyone tends to place their own interests on a pedestal.
“If you’re doubting its importance, try to find a certain message that you think is strongly needing to be conveyed. Art is perhaps the best way to do that, and it connects with the audience. It can give a good call to action to get the message across,” said Dunphy.
Legitimate participation is not limited to just careers. While the common belief is that STEM holds more importance because you are learning new data and facts, art holds several benefits as well.
A proven form of therapy, anything from mindless doodles to scrapbooking can be healing and peaceful for individuals.
“I enjoy the creativity and being able to create your own unique style,” said ceramics student Hannah Hoogendyk (10).
According to Americans for the Arts, artists only took up 1.6% of all workers aged sixteen and above in 2020. To raise that number, it is imperative that society place less doubt upon artists and allow their talents to flourish.
The stress begins in school, a time in which parents push their children toward the kind of path they favor and required classes include the traditional core courses, leaving little room for creativity and passion.
“I enjoy making my own clothes over the summer, but practically I would go into architecture for a more steady paying job. My friends enjoy seeing my work and my parents agree on a more practical job,” said Hoogendyk.
STEM is acclaimed as an innovative and respectable pathway, but the arts shed light on some of the brightest souls out there. The stroke of a paintbrush can speak a thousand words.
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