That’s when it hit me: it wasn’t the lesson that broke down. It was my students’ capacity to problem-solve independently.

When students can recognize art in the world around them, they start to see themselves as part of that world too. That’s not just art appreciation—it’s empowerment.

There’s a moment every school year when the “new” has worn off. The routines are set, the shine of fresh pencils has dulled, and both teachers and students start to feel that “no getting out of here until May” wall creeping in.

Artists tell the story of their world. By helping our students become globally aware, we’re not just teaching them to draw or paint. We’re teaching them to see.

Art Class Digest: Guest Blog: How Can Visual Art Make the World a Better Place? by Anna Nichols

My 7th & 8th Grade Students with their Choice Based Art Projects

Student photo