Easel Up: Why Art Education is Important in a Holistic Learning Journey

Not long ago, art education was considered as a leisure activity – something to be enjoyed as a hobby or to while away time. Today, art has become an important part of our everyday lives. We see it in the clothes we wear, the dishes we tuck into, and the technology we use.

In the classroom and beyond, art education allows students to express themselves creatively and teaches them to become confident individuals. In fact, participating in art helps cultivate positive civil and social behaviours.

Art education is important in any form of holistic education. Art is fun, but there is no doubt that it also helps children grow on many fundamental levels. But why is art education so important in schools?

It enhances development

One of the most important skills that are developed through art is fine motor development. Arts and crafts such as painting, cutting, and drawing helps to improve hand-eye coordination, especially in young children. Apart from increasing physical dexterity, it also aids in language development.

Art is not limited to simply painting or drawing, and activities in the art room can include group projects or show-and-tell sessions. For students, this can help them develop effective communication skills.

It improves intelligence

According to research, art does make one smarter. In the two-year long study, it was found that students who learn art showcased stronger critical thinking skills than those who did not.

The secret lies in how art is taught and practised. Every artwork is unique to its creator, and students who learn art are taught how to make their own choices and problem-solve if a method fails. Knowing and appreciating art in different forms also helps them interpret, process, and analyse abstract information better.

It builds social awareness

In school, art is largely a collaborative process – with the teachers’ guidance and students learning to work in groups. Even something as simple as sharing a palette of paint encourages everyone to be helpful and cooperating. Participating in art education from a young age helps children learn about teamwork, empathy, and how to regulate their emotions. In one of the projects at Chatsworth where students worked collaboratively, the Year 10 students drew a portrait, inspired by the work of illustrator Mica Angela Hendricks, that was then passed to the Year 1 students. After the Year 1 students added bodies and other subject matter, the work was returned to the Year 10's to unify and complete with water colours.

Art education is also a great way to introduce the unique cultures and traditions around the world. This helps to grow cultural awareness which can be beneficial in situations where people from different backgrounds get together.

It creates confidence

Art education allows students to express their thoughts and feelings in a healthy manner. Being able to share opinions and ideas in a classroom setting and display their works via external platforms also helps to boost their self-esteem and confidence. Art education can engage all five senses, and this also makes understanding complex concepts much easier. Every year, Chatsworth student artworks are selected for display at the International Schools Arts Exhibition (IN Art) where hundreds of students in international schools in Singapore exhibited their paintings, sculptures, drawings, collages, video art and more. Our student art pieces are also showcased at the Visual Arts exhibition held on campus where our community can visit and celebrate the achievements of our talented arts students.

Reap the Benefits of Art Education With Chatsworth

At Chatsworth International School, we value the importance of art education. Through integrating art with other disciplines, our students are able to better understand the curriculum and fall in love with learning along the way. At the primary school level, we offer ample opportunities for self-expression to develop confident young learners. Even through the middle school years and higher, our students will be equipped with skills gained through such artistic exposure.

As a private International Baccalaureate (IB) school, our programmes in Singapore will give our students a holistic learning experience. Chatsworth is honoured to be the winner of the Best Art Program award in the HoneyKids Education Awards 2021 and the Highly Commended Best School for the Arts award in the WhichSchoolAdvisor (Singapore) Best School Awards 2022. The awards are testaments to the emphasis and value of art education we place here at Chatsworth. From visual arts to drama to the many arts-related events and programmes, every Chatsworth student will be able to reap the benefits of art education in more ways than one. Our campus is also designed to inspire and enhance the educational journey.

Find out more about the arts at Chatsworth and how we inspire, educate, and enlighten our students, or book a tour of our campus today.