Why art matters - according to ZestLab

We asked some of the ZestLab team and our art club members the question 'Why art matters?' For some the answer definitely couldn't be written on a postcard, but in a nutshell the responses were all along a similar theme.

Here are some of the top few: 

• It's fun and I learn new things
• Develops wider character skills of peserverance and commitment  
• Being creative/artistic is a key skill for life, solving problems and thinking differently. 
• Meeting others and creating together
• I go into my own world and enjoy being there

Art is a way of communicating and expressing thoughts and feelings with communication coming from colour choice, size, meaning behind images and more. The saying 'a picture paints a thousand words' is true! A quick google search throws up so much research that tells us that it is through art processes that we connect on a deeper level with our emotions. Ellie, one of our Art session leaders says for her art is a universal form of communication - a model of expression and release. It can inspire and educate, encourage and nuture. 

There is also extensive research that identifes that partipating in art and creative activities reduces anxiety, depression and stress (Fancourt D, Finn S 2019), as well as allowing children and young people (and adults) to develop their own indenty through achieving, gaining confidence and having a purpose.

One of the comments we often hear from people popping into our art club sessions is how calm and relaxed the children are. This is because they are truly in the zone of what they are doing. Sue, one of our art teachers, always explains to children about the importance of not talking when making observational drawings as the brain switches over from the left to the right hand side. To keep this 'switch' in place, there needs to be no distractions. (We love neuroscience at ZestLab). This 'zone' was also very obviously observed with the teenagers who are part of our online art sessions. What a luxury in a very busy, multisensory world to just have space, calmness and freedom. 

For really young children, the involvment in open ended mark making and experimenting with as many materials as possible is a key part of development. Through this sensory play they are developing motor skills (a requirement for being able to write, paint, catch), exploring how materials work and what they can do. This play is often open ended with no prescribed end point allowing for success and building self esteem through achievement. 

So with just these benefits we have identified, why isn't art more of a priority in school curriculums? A more widely used vehicle for supporting children and young people's wellbeing? Communication needs? .....We could go on. 

ZestLab is committed to providing more opportunities for children and young people. From face to face workshops and online sessions to developing our virtual art communities and supporting the professional development of art educators and teachers. 

@2023 ZestLab