As many of you know I have spent almost 200 days at home recovering from long COVID. More on this journey in a future blog. One of the things I have come to appreciate is Art. I have made an effort to look at the world differently. Noticing, instead of letting the world rush by. I have also read Rick Rubin’s book which I highly recommend.
In the vast panorama of our NZ curriculum, the arts often emerge as a vibrant splash of color amidst black and white academia. The value of the Arts in secondary schools is more than aesthetic appreciation; it encompasses holistic education, critical life skills, cultural reverence, and emotional exploration. New Zealand’s curriculum, enriched by a blend of Māori, Western, and Pacific Island influences, showcases this importance vividly.
There’s a memory from my school days that often resonates with me. I remember the time I was introduced to the classical compositions of Douglas Lilburn at a time I was more predisposed to Neil Finn. The experience was transformative, making me view music as more than just notes, but as stories and emotions.
Deep within any artistic pursuit lies a dynamic force that ignites critical thinking and creativity. The realm of classical music, especially, stands as a testament to this journey. Composers like Douglas Lilburn, New Zealand’s premier maestro, brought an authentic Kiwi voice to classical music. His compositions, rich with motifs reminiscent of our breathtaking landscapes and cultural narratives, impart students an in-depth understanding of merging tradition with innovation. It’s more than just music; it’s an emotion, a narrative, a lens into New Zealand’s heart. And in this narrative, students learn not merely to replicate, but to innovate.
For those unfamiliar with Lilburn’s genius, imagine an auditory journey that blends the serene landscapes of New Zealand with the depths of human emotions.
New Zealand, with its diverse cultural blend, celebrates a unique tapestry that’s vibrant, rich, and deeply rooted in history. At the forefront of this is Pacifica Arts. From the rhythmic beats of the Samoan Siva dances to the eloquent narratives of the Tongan Lakalaka, each art form narrates tales of ancestry, resilience, migration, and integration.
But Pacifica Arts isn’t just an art form; it’s an educational journey. Through it, students explore history, geography, socio-political evolution, and most crucially, cultural identity. In an age where globalization often blurs cultural lines, Pacifica Arts emerges as a medium that not only celebrates its unique identity but also bridges global cultural understandings.
As an exercise, consider attending a Pacifica festival. The explosion of colors, sounds, and stories creates an immersive experience that educates as much as it entertains. If you’ve ever been part of such a celebration, pause and reflect: What did you learn? How did it make you feel? For me it was life changing.
One of my recent discoveries is Rita Angus. Her work, particularly “Cass”, is emblematic of her unique style, combining realism with emotional intensity. I am an artistic rookie but I think Angus didn’t just depict landscapes and portraits; she breathed life into them, infusing them with her personal experiences, emotions, and perspectives. For students, engaging with her works means not just learning about art, but also about history, feminism, and the essence of New Zealand’s socio-cultural fabric.
Art isn’t merely about expression; it’s also about acquisition – of skills, values, credits and insights. The collaboration required in an orchestra or the patience needed in visual arts are life skills that extend beyond school walls.
Can you recall a time when art taught you something more than the art itself? Maybe it was a team project, a play, or a musical ensemble where you learned the importance of teamwork, timing, and effort.
New Zealand’s art projects, especially within schools, often intertwine with community outreach and social themes. The canvas becomes a voice, speaking for the environment, societal integration, indigenous rights, and more.
Art becomes a medium to communicate pressing issues, challenges, and hopes. For students, this is invaluable. They learn to view art as a potent tool for change, advocacy, and social responsibility.
Relegating the Arts to a mere subject overlooks its profound influence on shaping minds and hearts. In New Zealand, the importance of integrating Arts within secondary education isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. The Arts don’t merely educate; they inspire, question, innovate, and most importantly, connect.
How has your personal experience with the Arts influenced your understanding of culture and identity, particularly in the context of New Zealand’s rich artistic heritage? Considering the profound impact of the Arts on cognitive and emotional development, how can we further integrate and prioritize artistic education within the broader secondary school curriculum?
As usual, I am interested in your thoughts.