Monday Inspiration: Why Funding For The Arts Is Important.

There really is no other explanation.  This quote says it.  

Creativity is an outlet, an outlet that lets your worries/anxieties out.  

Whatever this way of creativity is, use it.  

This is exactly why we need Arts Education.  

Some people just need that creative outlet, especially in schools.

stay creative.

-Cindy

Without the Arts...

Ever wonder what the world would be like without the arts? No, I don't mean just the subjects in school.  Scary place. No arts = no entertainment, pretty much. Advertisments would be different.. What about Broadway? Movies? Music to buy? ..ipods?!

All of these we (usually) take for granted. Things that happen in every day life, but if we didn't have the Arts (art, music, drama...) how would we end up living? What would be that fad that gets everyone hooked? Who knows what I would end up trying to get a job in. I can't think of anything that I would be doing. Being creative is a way of life for many people, not just myself.

All over, you hear of towns/cities needing to cut the arts in schools due to low budget. I know, the economy isn't great right now, but cutting this program won't do anything in the long run. Some kids need the arts in school. Some kids, who are on the quiet side, need a way to express themselves than other kids. I know, I know.. You're probably thinking "Well, Cindy... how about the parents of those kids introduce the Arts at home?" That would be great! However, when you are in an art class (or music class, drama, etc.) you get feedback from your teacher and fellow students that helps you grow.  And to be honest, some parents may not be able to get to introduce the arts to their child as well as teachers can. 

This is probably the riskiest profession to actually get into. Especially in this economy. So much competition, but if it's something you enjoy doing, don't give up.

So, in ending this blog, all I ask of you is.. if you hear of the Arts program in a town getting cut speak up. Write a letter. Whatever you feel comfortable doing.  You can even let congress know how much you support the Arts and Arts Education here on ArtsUSA.org.  When you see a child gaining interest in the Arts, be supportive. Maybe it will only be a hobby or maybe that child will grow into an exceptional artist. 

I have a couple of causes on the Arts in the bar thingy to the right. Check it out if you please.

Cut out letters from a magazine (Redbook)
and taped to a paper to draw from.

-Cindy

Find Your Light Foundation

Before I post another piece, I wanted to shed some light on a new foundation you may, or may not have heard about before.  If you are a fan of Josh Groban, then you probably know about it.

Recently, he announced his Find Your Light Foundation which is to help enrich the lives of younger kids in the arts.  Throughout his tour, he is picking an arts organization in each city to highlight.  I am all for a foundation like this.  The Arts is an important factor in a child's life and it hurts a little to know that in some schools, the art and music classes have been cut.  Students need a way to 'find their light' in another way that may not be through academics, or recess, or whichever.  Academics is very important, but being creative with art and/or music is also a great way to find yourself.  Some young kids need that outlet.

One easy way to donate is just text ART to 50555 to make a $10 donation.

If you find yourself intrigued even more, check out these links to learn more:
http://www.findyourlightfoundation.org
http://www.americansforthearts.org/

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Make Art, Not War

I'm not sure who started this lovely phrase, but it's one of my favorites, of course.  A play on words from the "Make Love, Not War" it tells people that it is best to create some kind of art than to fight.  Which leads me to why Arts in schools is important.  (Do not allow arts in your schools to be cut!!)  Any type of art allows kids another way to show what they mean and express themselves.

To see the piece click the jump below!