I have been following this project for a long time. I always like reading or listing to the guests. I liked the questions from the past that featured kids. But, this one might be my favorite. Professor Blumenthal’s ideas about the value of writing are excellent. Art helps us feel more alive. Writers, through their skillful use of putting feelings and ideas in words, help us understand ourselves. Professor Lambertson makes such a strong case for the value of art education. Professor Jackson is such an enthusiastic advocate for the value of music. And, Professor Pollard made me wonder about what makes something art. Good job, Dr. Ryan!!

I think that art should always go beyond entertainment. I believe that art is a window into the metaphysical and allows us to make important introspection’s that puts the world around us into perspective. Most art is allegorical in nature, but sometimes it is ambiguous and calls for an even closer inspection. These inquiries enable us to use our imaginations and reach our own conclusions. There is some art out there that doesn’t represent anything, so it may be up to the individual to determine if there is anything to be gleaned from a particular piece of art. It is very important for students to have an appreciation for art as well because it is unique for all of us. Before you can judge a piece of art’s worth, you must find the message in it that speaks to you, personally.

The value if art is determined by one’s definition of art. I like Tolstoy’s:
“Art is” ..”a means of union among men, joining them together in the same feeling, and indispensable for the life and progress toward well-being of individuals and of humanity.”