Some school systems drop art-related programs because they "cost too much." Art is a "luxury," the theory goes. "Unnecessary." "Frivolous." "A waste of time." This makes as much sense as saying we need food, water, and air, but not to touch and be touched. It is well known that babies who are never cuddled die. Socialization is as essential as breathing. It is no accident that serial killers are noted for keeping to themselves.
Creative people need a good deal of alone time, as do researchers, scholars, and others. But alone does not imply isolated. Creating requires observation, participation, and a degree of nderstanding. Someone to create for! Isolation is the worst punishment imaginable. That is why some societies use shunning to keep members in line. We need each other! We need to see, hear, smell, and feel the presence of other human beings. And not just those whom it is possible to meet face-to-face.
The arts serve to communicate humanity in all its many forms. The arts encourage individuality and connection. Do we need art? Do we need laughter? How about a smile now and then? The sight of a spectacular sunset or a magnificent old oak? To sway to rhythm? Sing a song? The arts are too much a part of us to deny. Besides, they're fun. Its About Women can be serious (honest), but we looooove to have fun. Bet you do! Help us fill our galleries, darkrooms, and paint-paddlin' rooms with very, very, very necessary ART[-S :)]. Below, you will find links to brief intros to each posting in Gallery & Darkroom categories.
Gallery & Darkroom