As parents, we hold dear the dreams and aspirations of our children. We understand that these dreams may evolve over time as they grow and discover more about themselves. That’s why we’re committed to providing them with the education and opportunities that will equip them for any path they choose to take. One crucial aspect of this preparation is early exposure to the arts.

When our children engage in activities like art, music, dance, or visual arts, it’s not solely about training them to become professional artists in the future. Instead, it’s about enriching their educational journey in profound ways. These experiences lay the foundation for creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression – skills that are invaluable regardless of their eventual career paths.

Sometimes, the impact of arts education on a person’s life trajectory is direct and significant. Take, for instance, the story of Cindy, as shared in an excerpt from my book, “Being Visual.” Her lack of instruction or guidance in learning the ‘how to’ of drawing influenced her career choices as an adult. It underscores the importance of providing structured learning experiences in the arts from an early age.

As a young child, I loved making things and doing art. I loved to color and was one of those kids that colored perfectly. I was so careful, so detailed and never went out of the lines. But when I went to elementary school and had to draw, I was really frustrated. I remember being in class and the teacher expecting us to draw, but don’t remember her telling us how. I didn’t know how to draw things the way I could see them, so I gave up.

My grandmother taught me needlepoint, and I was an excellent seamstress at an early age, making all my own clothes. I wanted to be an interior designer, so I enrolled in college with that as my major. After a few classes, my earlier drawing frustration was back, hindering my ability to complete the course work. The instructor was kind, and told me I had a good eye for design, but I still couldn’t draw out the assignments. After a few classes, I decided to give up and switched from interior design to a major in textiles and clothing. Draping class was problematic when it came to drawing out my designs, but I managed to get through that one class to complete my degree. I minored in art history, because it was one way to be involved in art without having to draw!

As an adult, I still participate in a variety of art forms — sewing, cross stitch, quilting and decorating. I never became an interior designer, the career I really wanted, because I couldn’t draw. Now, if I have to draw something it’s still a painful experience. There are too many memories of wanting to do something so much and never learning how.

In reflecting on the journey of arts education and its profound impact, it’s evident that the seeds we plant in childhood blossom into the paths we tread as adults. Our commitment to providing our children with a holistic education, inclusive of the arts, is not just about nurturing future artists, but about empowering them with essential life skills.

Through the story of Cindy and my own experiences, we see how the absence of structured art instruction can shape the trajectory of one’s career aspirations. It underscores the importance of early exposure to the arts and the ‘how to’ of artistic expression. As parents, educators, and mentors, it’s our responsibility to ensure that every child has the opportunity to explore, create, and discover their unique talents.

Let us champion arts education as a cornerstone of childhood development. Together, let’s foster environments where creativity flourishes, where every stroke of a paintbrush and every note played on a piano is celebrated as a step towards self-discovery and fulfillment. By investing in the arts today, we pave the way for a brighter, more vibrant future for generations to come.