Forensic Artist Video Clip
This is a powerful and moving video about a forensic artist who draws women's faces based on how they describe themselves and then by how they are described by someone else.
While it is a touching short clip, it also got me thinking about Fine Arts in terms of careers. How often is art (or dance, or music) added on to the weekly curriculum and treated a bit like fluff? Are we developing skills in these subject areas that students can take in to the real world the way we do with Math, Reading, Writing, and so on? Do we value Fine Arts enough to consider the content something that can prepare students for the future? What skills are transferable? Can we help students link future careers to their strengths in the areas of Fine Arts? Since not all children are exposed to or can participate in artistic activities outside of school so that they can hone their artistic skills (no access to music lessons for example) then school may be the place that unveils an artistic talent in a child. School is probably where most famous actors were introduced to drama!
When we have students who struggle in other areas of the curriculum but are strong in one area of the arts, I think it's important to help them identify ways that they can use their strengths to their fullest potential. So besides a job as a forensic artist (or famous actor/famous musician!), what realistic and achievable careers can you think of that are built on the foundation of either a talent in an area of Fine Arts, skills developed by practicing in areas of the arts, or by an interest in aspects of the arts?
graphic designer, architect, website designer, video game designer, comic book illustrator, event planner, caterer, dance teacher/ dancer, school art teacher, local actor (theatre northwest level)....
ReplyDeleteGood points, Laura, and thanks for the list, Katerina. I agree that arts aren't taken seriously enough in schools - but finding a job isn't the only benefit, although there are probably as many people working in the video game industry now as in the movies! Lots has been written on how arts experiences build personal identity and confidence, strengthen decision making and the pursuit of excellence, as well as engage students interest when it is integrated with other subjects. We might have looked at more of that information but I hoped you would also experience some of it for yourself, or access memories of times when you did - I thought that personal experience would have a more powerful impact on your teaching.
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