Ever since people could find something to scribble on a cave wall with there has been art. It’s an important vehicle for conveying ideas and feelings. Art touches every aspect of our lives, but is often overlooked as a serious subject. Many people think of art as frivolous and unimportant, or think that if they don’t have a talent for it then it doesn’t impact them. Oh contraire!

Art is more than the tempera-painted, newsprint portraits of our youth. It’s everywhere and an important part of defining and expressing our culture. For example, take a look at our flag. It’s memorable, no? That’s because the folks who designed it intended it to be that way – each bit of the design fraught with meaning, and colors bold enough to be easily recognized at a glance (fun fact: historians doubt it was dear old Betsy Ross). This work of art is so important it’s a part of our national identity. Think about New York City. What’s the first thing that comes to mind? Chances are it’s the Statue of Liberty, or the iconic image of an apple – both art – one architectural, the other a simple graphic image…

Art can a powerful tool for conveying ideas in religion too, a subject that affects the daily lives of millions. In homage to ‘The Big Guy’, the finest artists are commissioned to produce amazing structures, furnishings, paintings, stained glass and sculpture. In some faiths, elaborate costumes are designed for religious officiates. Although I’m not Catholic, two big snaps for them because it’s hard to beat the beauty of a Catholic church.  If you haven’t had a chance to visit the Cathedral Basilica in the Central West End, put it on your to do list. It’s a truly stunning space. So good in fact, the Pope popped in for a visit and left his fancy chair.

Visual information is the fastest way to communicate and doesn’t depend on literacy or even a common language. Art can be a powerful medium for propaganda or social commentary.  For example, Rosie the Riveter  empowered women to redefine gender roles and get to work in factories during war time. This image continues to be iconic in promoting the strength of women. Art has played a vital role in recording history and helps shape our understanding of events, past and present. The development of photography is arguably one of the most important and meaningful developments in the history of recent art. Masters of the lens record vignettes of our lives ranging from war to weddings and preserve moments of majestic beauty in photograph, like Ansel Adams’ images of Yosemite.

Every culture, rich or poor, rural or urban embraces art in their daily lives. You don’t have to look very hard to find it – it’s everywhere from the placement of the plants in our yards, to finger paintings on the fridge, to stuff on the walls of public spaces. Looking at art can impact our perspective. Art can be ugly or beautiful, joyous or sad. It can be cathartic and healing. Whether you are making art or taking it in, it’s an important part of our daily experience. So the next time somebody says art doesn’t matter, you straighten ‘em out!

Consider yourself a lucky duck too, being here in St. Louis we’re spoiled rotten with art. Thanks to the Frenchies for all their fine architecture, and kudos to the generous benefactors and taxpayers for keeping places like the History Museum and the St. Louis Art Museum free. Yep, not a cent for entry and you can gobble up art by the gallery full. How cool is that?

image credit: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/12/We_Can_Do_It!.jpg

Holly is the Arts & Crafts Editor for Girls Guide. You can check out her site, South City Studio, to see her handmade jewelry, read about her upcoming craft shows and learn more about her artsy self. You can contact Holly by Emailing her – holly [at] girlsguidetothegalaxy [dot] com, and you can follow her on Twitter – @southcitystudio.