Integration of Art Education in Schools
by Kreeti Goswami
The concept of art education in schools includes a broad range of ideas and practices aimed at fostering artistic development and creativity in students. Art education plays a crucial role in a well-rounded curriculum, contributing to the overall cognitive, emotional, and social development of students.
History of Art in India
India has a rich history of artistic traditions that were passed down through generations. Artistic skills were traditionally imparted through apprenticeship systems, where individuals learned various art forms from experienced masters. This informal education system was prevalent for centuries. Art flourished under the patronage of various Indian rulers and kingdoms. Courts were often centres of artistic activity, and artists received support for their work. This led to the creation of intricate paintings, sculptures, and other forms of visual art.
During the British colonial period, Western educational models were introduced in India. The British established art schools to train Indian artists in European artistic techniques. The Madras School of Art (1850), the Bombay School of Art (1857), and the Calcutta School of Art (1854) were among the early institutions set up during this time.
The art schools established by the British colonial administration aimed to produce artists who could contribute to the production of colonial art, including portraits, landscapes, and illustrations. The curriculum at these schools primarily followed Western academic art traditions. Rabindranath Tagore, a poet, philosopher, and artist, founded Santiniketan in 1901. This educational institution aimed to integrate arts, humanities, and nature. It became a centre for experimentation in art education.
Art education in India before 1947 was characterised by a complex interplay of traditional artistic practices, colonial influences, and emerging nationalist movements. The period saw the coexistence of indigenous art traditions and the introduction of Western academic art, setting the stage for the subsequent evolution of art education in independent India.
Kothari Commission
With this in view in art, the Kothari Commission, 1964, officially known as the National Education Commission, was set up in India in 1964 under the chairmanship of Daulat Singh Kothari. The commission was tasked with reviewing the Indian education system and recommending measures for its improvement. While the primary focus of the Kothari Commission was on general education, it did touch upon various aspects, including art education.
The key point was that it recognised the importance of fostering creativity and aesthetic sensibility among students. The Kothari Commission recommended the inclusion of art education at all levels of schooling. It suggested that arts and crafts activities should be integral to the curriculum to nurture creativity and skills from an early age. Recognising the importance of well-trained teachers, the commission recommended the incorporation of art education in teacher training programmess. This was seen as essential for ensuring that teachers were equipped to impart artistic knowledge and skills effectively. The commission stressed the need for adequate facilities, resources, and infrastructure for the promotion of art education. The Kothari Commission suggested establishing a connection between formal art education and traditional art forms.
New Education Policy, 2020
With the coming of NEP, 2020. The policy emphasised on a wholistic and multidisciplinary approach to education. It recognises the importance of integrating arts and sports with academic disciplines to provide students with a well-rounded education. The NEP 2020 acknowledges the significance of arts, culture, and languages in education. It emphasises the promotion of Indian art forms, classical and folk arts, and cultural heritage. This inclusion is aimed at fostering a sense of appreciation for diverse forms of expression. The policy recognises the importance of early childhood care and education, focusing on the integration of play, art, and activity-based learning in the foundational years of schooling.
Impact of Art Integrated Education in India
With these two policies there are some common threads which come to the forefront:
Creativity and Expression:
Art education encourages students to explore and express their creativity. It provides a platform for self-expression, allowing students to communicate ideas, emotions, and perspectives through various art forms.
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving:
Engaging in art activities fosters critical thinking skills. Students learn to analyse, interpret, and make decisions about their artistic choices, which can translate to improved problem-solving skills in various aspects of their education and life.
Cultural and Historical Awareness:
Art education introduces students to a diverse range of artistic styles, traditions, and cultural expressions. Studying art history and different artistic movements helps students understand the cultural and historical context of artworks.
Aesthetic Appreciation:
Art education cultivates an appreciation for aesthetics and beauty. Students learn to recognise and appreciate the value of visual elements, such as colour, form, texture, and composition.
Skill Development:
Art classes provide opportunities for students to develop a wide range of skills, including fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and spatial awareness. Students also learn technical skills related to various art mediums, such as drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital media.
Interdisciplinary Learning:
Art education often integrates with other disciplines, promoting interdisciplinary learning. Students may explore connections between art and subjects like science, mathematics, literature, and social studies.
Personal and Social Growth:
Through collaborative projects and individual expression, students develop confidence, self-esteem, and a sense of identity. Art education contributes to the social and emotional well-being of students by providing a space for personal exploration and positive peer interactions.
Cultural Competence and Inclusivity:
Art education encourages an inclusive approach, celebrating diversity and providing students with opportunities to explore and appreciate different cultural perspectives. It fosters cultural competence and respect for diverse forms of artistic expression.
Lifelong Appreciation for the Arts:
Art education aims to instil a lifelong appreciation for the arts. By exposing students to various artistic experiences, schools hope to cultivate a love for the arts that extends beyond their formal education.
Art integration significantly contributes to the wholistic development of students, enabling them to celebrate diversity and cultivate an appreciation for creativity and beauty. Various policies have emphasised integrating art at different levels of education, and its positive impact is evident in multiple aspects of student development, encompassing creativity, critical thinking, cultural awareness, aesthetic appreciation, skill development, interdisciplinary learning, personal and social growth, cultural competence, and the cultivation of a lifelong appreciation for the arts.