Art Curriculum Offers Window into Diverse, Visual World

Many schools across the country grapple with budget constraints because shrinking funds and art programs are often the first to be cut.

But several experts concur that art is an important part of a well-rounded education. Americans for the Arts points out that art “stimulates and develops the imagination and critical thinking, and refines cognitive and creative skills... across socio-economic boundaries.”

St. John Vianney Catholic School’s art program is thriving thanks to the new, full-time art teacher, Dana Bach.

Ms. Bach graduated from MIAD, receiving a Bachelor of Fine Arts with a sculpture focus. Ms. Bach also obtained Alverno College’s Art Education Teaching Licensure.

“Art is so important in a child’s education as it promotes skills in creativity, problem solving, reasoning, and decision making,” Ms. Bach said.

With the technological revolution leading to devices we use in virtually every aspect of our lives — to play games, read books, communicate with family and friends via video, text, chat and much more — the importance of visual media cannot be overstated.

Ms. Bach understands the impact visual media has on children now and in the future. “With the diverse world we live in, that is so visually oriented, I believe my students in art will gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the 21st century,” she said.

SJV students are encouraged to think outside-the-box with opportunities to “explore art material and methods and [they] learn that there is no one right way to do or interpret art,” Ms. Bach added.

One of Ms. Bach’s current art projects has 2nd and 5th graders using techniques characteristic of Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso.

In February, St. John Vianney’s fund-raising auction will feature creative art projects made by each class. This year, Ms. Bach is coordinating those class art projects — a major undertaking as the class art creations have a history of being very sought-after auction items.