Art is creativity.
Art is passion.
Art is individual.
Art is unique.
Art is personal.
Art is expression.

So, if art is all of these, why are some “art” classes lacking these qualities?
Art classes follow strict guidelines imposed by the district for what should be taught. Projects that are given have rubrics with firm requirements that must be met. Adding these limitations stunts a student’s ability to produce art that is imaginative, innovative, and inspirational. Student’s creativity and self expression is blocked by any limitations given and art classes soon become a black hole for a student’s creative nature.

While some students do see art as an “easy grade”, others take it seriously and those are the ones who suffer when the classes are given regulations. To cater to these students that are in the classes because they are required or to get out of doing academic work, art classes are taught in a way that prevents aspiring young artists from embracing their potential. Instead of being taught artistic techniques and then being urged to express their creativity through these techniques, students are taught styles of art and then graded on how well they imitate these styles.

It is understandable that teachers are responsible for a large number of students and can not allow them to do whatever they want but too many guidelines can stifle creative expression. There has to be a middle ground.  Teachers could present projects by first teaching techniques. Of course, requirements are necessary, but not to a point where it prevents an artist from producing an effective piece of art. Teachers could grade artwork in a way that judges their effectiveness and their use of the techniques rather than if they meet certain requirements. 

 
Art should be limitless, but art classes are swarming with restraints.
Art is liberation of the artist’s mind, but students are not asked to free their minds but to copy the freedom of other artists.
Art is the expression of spontaneity. It’s an emotion, a sensation and a way of life and a way for artists to express themselves; shouldn’t it be taught in the same manor?