Dismissing the arts overlooks their importance

Illustration by Lucas Lim and Audrey Yang

There is a popular stereotype that the arts are merely pointless hobbies with little to no practical value. If someone wants to learn how to play the flute, many would find it humorous and deride them for pursuing a useless skill. This sentiment seems appealing, but students can gain subtle yet important qualities such as creativity, self-expression and collaboration from participation in the arts.

A large contributing factor of this stigma results from narrow definitions of success. If an artist does not become the next Beethoven, many will consider it an outright failure. Being unable to reach at least hundreds of thousands of views in new album releases is also generally frowned upon. However, in the example of learning an instrument, regular practice and concentration to playing the right notes builds core skills like patience, discipline and focus. In dance ensembles or bands, members also have to possess good coordination and collaboration skills to produce organized dances or harmonious music. By the same logic, taking chemistry at school but not becoming a renowned chemist does not make the course trivial. Rather, it stimulates other important skills such as critical thinking, working in groups and time management, while also building resilience, perseverance and the ability to learn from one’s own mistakes. All of these are qualities and life skills that extend beyond just arts.

For many, the arts are an effective outlet to relieve stress. Many find peace in how their creative expression can be translated into sounds or lines, while sketching or coloring creates the same effect. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), playing an instrument can lessen anxiety by lowering cortisol levels  (better sleep) and raising levels of dopamine. In my experience, playing the piano and the violin is a good destressor, as you get immersed in the music and feel proud of your ability.

There is also a myth that a career in arts is extremely limited. When many hear the word ‘artist,’ their mind travels to someone in the streets sketching to get paid. However, there are many fields to pursue that are related to the arts profession. Artists work as instrumentalists, instructors, directors, composers, talent recruiters, graphic design and conductors. That is, “artist” is not a single job but rather a gateway toward dozens of professions that build and benefit from an abundance of creativity.

Ultimately, the stereotype that the arts are “useless” is an unfounded statement. Art mediums of any type regulate stress and build important life skills regardless of personal occupation. It is important to push back against this stigma in order to resist pressure that is unfortunately put on kids to drop art related passions.