The Value of the Arts
Experiencing art is important to humanity. In any form, art allows people to explore their creativity. Humans are wired to create and express themselves through art, and to appreciate art because it is an inalienable part of human existence. The value of the arts is clear and undeniable.
Art is a kind of universal language that people from every culture and background use as a way to communicate. It is a means for people to share ideas, experiences, and feelings that words cannot express; the expression of those aspects of life is important, and art makes it easier to do. Art encourages people to consider the perspectives of others, no matter what their social, cultural, or political background. Its value lies in the fact that it connects people from all walks of life, of every age and stage.
Art is also beneficial to wellness. Art has been studied and found to have a positive impact on people’s physical and mental well-being. It decreases stress and improves mood, promoting mental clarity and peace, making it useful for use in therapy plans. According to research on the effects of art on health and wellness, art improves physical health as well. It boosts immune function and helps with chronic pain management, often resulting in fewer doctors’ visits. Art affects people’s overall quality of life by improving both mental and physical health.
Art is worthwhile because it inspires people, too. It motivates people, moves them emotionally, and encourages them to be open minded. Further, art encourages people to use their imaginations and creative vision, and helps them expand the scope of both, which facilitates ideation, invention, and innovation. The value of art is intrinsic to human existence.
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RESOURCES
- “The benefits art therapy can have on mental and physical health,” by Holly Tiret, https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/the_benefits_art_therapy_can_have_on_mental_and_physical_health
- “Arts, Health, & Wellness,” by Judy Rawlins, https://www.americansforthearts.org/sites/default/files/Arts%26America_HealthWellness.pdf
- “What are the health benefits of being creative?,” by Maria Cohut, Ph.D., https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320947
- “What Is Art Good For? The Socio-Epistemic Value of Art,” by Aleksandra Sherman and Clair Morrissey, https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnhum.2017.00411/full
- “The Value of Arts and Culture to People and Society, An Evidence Review,” by Arts Council England, https://www.americansforthearts.org/sites/default/files/Value_arts_culture_evidence_review.pdf
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The Naples Art District boasts the largest concentration of working artists in the Southwest Florida area. The unique coalition of over 90 fine artists based in the District, giving these professional creatives a place to share their talents, which range across a wide variety of mediums and methods. If you are planning a trip to visit the Naples, Florida area and are interested in finding out more about the Naples Art District, check out the calendar of art events, workshops, and classes online; or feel free to contact the organization any time via the online form or by phone at 239-249-1977. The Naples Art District is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.