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Time and history have proven just how essential the arts are in human lives - not only because of their practical purposes but of how it elevates life as it is. Without all of the aesthetic value, our world would be just bleak and dull, devoid of color and depth.
Fine arts classes usually tackle the visual arts, such as painting, sculpture, drawing, printmaking, etc. However, it may also include the performing arts such as theater, music, and dance. The purpose of fine arts classes is to develop skills and creativity to create aesthetic works.
This article will discuss more fine art classes and their relevance in students’ lives. I’ll also discuss where you could take them and share some careers fine arts graduates may pursue.
Fine art is focused on creating for artistic expression and aesthetic value or simply art for art’s sake. This dedication to beauty instead of practicality often distinguishes it from other arts, like decorative arts and applied arts, which have a more functional value.
Fine arts classes are courses on visual arts and performing arts, such as drawing, painting, sculpture, dance, music, and theater. It also pertains to 3D design, photography, and even architecture classes. These benefit students by developing skills, creative expression, and identity.
While many disregard the arts as frivolous and impractical, they’re essential to our lives. Every day, we’re surrounded by artworks such as paintings and songs that help elevate our experience and allow us to experience life beyond practical functions. They contribute to our creative expression and appreciation.
Fine art classes are crucial in developing this mindset and endowing technical skills. Indeed, they allow a student to grow better as a person, as their creativity, problem-solving, collaboration, and other skills get honed. It’s even asserted that artistic students are also more likely to become academic achievers.
Moreover, fine art classes help students form their identities. They can serve as an outlet or safe space for many young people who are still exploring their interests, passions, and strengths. The arts also give them something exciting and worthwhile to commit to and even help prevent some individuals from dropping out.
There are many things students can expect from fine arts classes. While it may primarily involve practical and hands-on work, discussions on theoretical frameworks or even historical backgrounds may also be conducted.
In fine arts, you get to learn technical and visual skills needed to create aesthetic artwork. You may explore the basics of different fine art classes or have a specialization. Students are also taught about its theoretical aspects and how to build their portfolios.
There are many opportunities to explore the fine arts in school, even as early as elementary. However, these may be more general than those in the higher levels.
Fine arts classes are offered as early as elementary level, through art, music, and theater classes. Many high schools also provide them since an art class may be required for graduation in certain states. Meanwhile, fine arts degree-granting programs are available in college.
In Washington, United States of America, high school students must complete a certain number of art courses to graduate. These may include dance, media arts, theater, visual arts, and music classes.
Meanwhile, the University High School of Indiana offers a variety of fine arts classes, including graphic illustration, textiles, bookbinding, printmaking, 2D and 3D design, and many more.
Besides these general courses and electives, there are high schools dedicated to studying the arts. In these institutions, students may get more specialized and intensive training to prepare them to become art professionals. Examples of such schools are the Philippine High School for the Arts, San Francisco High School for the Arts, and Performing Institute of Minnesota Arts High School.
You may also pursue degree-granting programs (bachelor’s, master’s, Ph.D.) for fine arts in college. Standard courses included in a fine arts program curriculum include:
Some of the best schools in which to study fine arts are the Royal College of London, University of the Arts London, Parsons School of Design, and Rhode Island School of Design.
The application requirements for fine arts college programs vary per institution. Hence, it’s best to contact the university you’re interested in and inquire whether they have the program and what requirements you need to comply with.
Some institutions may require students to submit a portfolio when applying for their fine arts program. Performing fine arts programs like dance may also screen applicants through video or live auditions. Applicants may be interviewed or asked to display their passion and dedication to the program.
Prestigious institutions may be more selective than other schools. Hence, they may ask for more requirements or have higher standards in assessing your application.
Despite the stereotype, there’s a career to be found in fine arts. Many dedicated artists around the world prove this.
Fine art students may become illustrators, designers, painters, sculptors, photographers, dancers, etc. They may also become educators for the next generation of artists. Art grads may also pursue another field, like marketing, where their skills are still applicable and valued.
If you plan to have a career in this field, preparing and building a solid portfolio is crucial. You may start doing so in college, where your teachers can guide you in crafting one.
The fine arts are an underappreciated field, yet we could barely imagine life without it. Hence, if you aspire to be a great artist, don’t let people's doubts sway you.
There are many classes and programs you can take to hone your skills and allow you to compete strongly for opportunities after graduation. Becoming a fine artist takes grit and commitment; thus, you have to have a strong passion and interest.
