The Values Study Rediscovering the Meaning and Value of Arts Participation
Meanings and Values – Dance Nutmeg Conservatory • • • • • • • •
Develop a sense of rhythm and space, movement and shape Freedom/release/enjoyment that comes from dancing Romance/relationship/creating a shared experience A cause for understanding each other better Opportunity to socialize Nurturing children by exposing them to working artists Self esteem; children learn discipline Social status
Music and Arts Center for Humanity • • • • •
Direct spiritual connection is possible in several senses: 1) transformative experience, 2) animism/invoking the animal spirit; achieve a trance-like state Parents grow a new pride in their kids through arts involvement Self-confidence (come out of a shell); better body image; acquire social skills New vocabulary/technique – a new skill learned Dance can help you awaken other creative outlets, as well
Sankofa Kuumba Cultural Arts Consortium • • • • • • • • • •
Healing value of art Art as a social support system for at-risk youth (e.g., hip-hop as a value system; it can be positive) Art gives people a chance to make choices – to evolve a sense of individuality Self-discovery; sense of pride Unlocks creative potential, especially among kids who might never have a chance Value in creating arts experiences for others; nurturing Sense of accomplishment; self-confidence Spiritual enlightenment A way to express yourself without having to verbalize anything Dance is like an out-of-body experience; you can have a break-through experience, even if you have a body that “isn’t the right shape”
Center for the Arts – Wesleyan Univ. • • •
Able to witness human capacity Self-awareness; understand physical capacity and limitations of your body Enjoyment/entertainment Page 108