Art does not stand apart from the society in which it is created. Art emerges directly from the time and culture, the priorities and expectations, the challenges and opportunities, and the changes and experiences of the surrounding society. It mirrors these things for that society – sometimes in supportive ways, sometimes in critical ways. Art invites – and occasionally forces – reflection about values, beauty, directions, lifestyles and achievements. Minds and hearts are touched by art. Change may follow as a result.

Art has the capacity to uplift and provoke. Art is an expression of passion. We live and breathe inside art, whether it’s an item of clothing, a dance, the design of an old steam engine, or a well-composed photograph. Art is a frontier of free expression – about what’s happening in our world and what needs to happen. Art crosses linguistic and cultural boundaries because it can speak to the soul and inspire change.

Artists question everything. They help us visit places unknown. Artists rather than politicians lead some of the most important discussions about the state of the world. As an example, cartoonists poke fun and simultaneously point in new directions. Artists challenge us to re-evaluate and reinterpret social, historical and political events. They invite us to reshape society.

Here’s what a few artists have said about the role of art in society.

The artist records history for future generations, art reaches out & touches people around the world, it can lift people when they are down or create controversy, art is a very important part of society.

Pearl Rogers, Australia

Artists see things in a totally different way; they challenge the boundaries of rules, society and imagination yet also keep us in touch with the past.

Linda Hoey, UK

Art takes us out of ourselves. It allows us to address the big questions in life. It makes us think of ourselves and mortality.

Alice Helwig, Canada

Art has always embodied the relationship between humans and the natural environment. Artists address concerns about the way we interact with nature. In the 21st century – as in other times – art can and must play a role in focusing humanity on social and environmental issues and on dealing with the sustainability problems of our time. It can and must encourage discussion about community concerns, how we relate with the planet and each other, and possible solutions to sustainability problems.

Art is a compulsory subject in Australian schools. It plays an important role in deepening students’ engagement with learning. Through engaging in productive art lessons children develop high order skills of analysis, synthesis and evaluation as well as critical thinking, problem solving and decision making. Art also enhances literacy and numeracy skills in children. Art allows children to grasp and appreciate not only their culture but other cultures and traditions. It exposes children to different societies and beliefs. Children learn to respect and appreciate diversity and become more tolerant of different cultures, all through art.

Phil Smith

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