#FEATURE | Relevance of Arts in Pisay
by Linus Angeles
“The greatest scientists are artists as well.”
This famous quote by Albert Einstein implies that science and art overlaps quite a lot. Science, a method of explaining the world objectively, can be used as inspiration for (or even explained through) artistic expression. Art, in turn, inspires scientific breakthroughs and illustrates certain aspects of things in a more creative light, which could help in creating clearer explanations or explains them at a different angle.
With the removal of a few humanities electives in Grade 10, as well as the removal of the Filipino subject from the college curriculum, people could think that the arts are less useful in society. However, the arts continue to thrive through the clubs, school activities, and students’ personal projects. The arts do help in illustrating certain ideas, after all.
“I think that art in all its forms is a way to express yourself in a way that captures permanence and meaning. It’s always been a way for me to share a piece of myself, to declare something about myself — basically an extended way that I can communicate my soul,” says Grade 9 student Carlos Salazar.
Art is a very integral part of humanity, and it has existed ever since the beginning of human sentience. In fact, historians use ancient paintings, pottery, and other works in figuring out the culture and state of society in the era they were made.
“Arts can be a quintessential part of society, which helps in the creation of the identity of a nation. All sculptures, paintings, etc. can be traced back to the culture of the nation that has been brewing since the creation of their society,” says grade 11 student Alex* in an interview.
In the modern day, it’s so easy to create your own art, may it be visual or literary. There are apps for writing, drawing, and other things right at your fingertips. Paper and pens are easily accessible, and you can write, draw, or paint to your heart’s content. All it takes is a creative mind and a will to express yourself. Even science high school students can create their very own artistic piece.
“The good thing about art is that in a way, it stands strong against time. Sure, you could say that it’s fleeting, but it’s an experience that can be preserved. This is especially easy now because of the Internet,” continues Salazar.
A few interview respondents also claim that being part of an art-related club and committing to it doesn’t necessarily negatively impact their grades and passing of requirements. In fact, some claim that being a part of said clubs helps them in taking a break from all the requirements and tests they have to worry about, which would benefit their mental state and productivity.
The humanities and arts are also a part of the PSHS curriculum, and we cannot really say that the arts are being removed from the curriculum. Being a science high school, it comes as a little surprise that non-STEM subjects get graded, albeit usually only contributing a unit to a student’s grade.
“I think art clubs are a fun way of developing or even discovering your talents outside academics. It can also help in taking a break from the potential stress and pressure students may feel throughout the school year,” answers Grade 10 student Sean Amor.
Art can also be considered a good coping mechanism: it provides a release for large amounts of stress a science high school could dish out. Channeling your problems, stress, and overwhelming feelings through artistic expression does seem like a healthy way of releasing your inner thoughts, all the while promoting creativity and further improving your artistic skills.
“I’ve been writing for a few years now, and I’ve found it to be a way of escaping life when everything becomes too stressful. It’s fun to write about all kinds of things, especially if you’re not pressured to do it,” comments Grade 10 student Kate Billena.
According to a research by Haeyen, van Hooren, van der Veld, and Hutschemaeders (2017), art therapy, a type of therapy applied through the creation of art, is very effective in improving one’s well-being and quality of life, and in extension, their mental state.
“Sometimes, art is not only a form of expression but also a passion for many others. Pursuing a passion can give meaning to life, and perhaps something to leave behind for later generations,” remarks Damien Estacio, a Grade 11 student.
The arts are well-appreciated in Pisay, with a considerable number of students being active in art clubs and sharing their artistic creations online with their friends. If you would look at an average Pisay student’s notebook, you’d most likely spot a few sketches and poetic lines.
In fact, researcher Andrade (2010) discovered that those who doodle while listening to a recording remembered more details 29% better than those who didn’t doodle.
“[Art] is a viable method of calming down and letting go of the weight in your mind by doing what you love and by expressing your emotions,” says Grade 11 student Victor Sudaria.
Most of the interviewees consider themselves artists or creators (or at least get involved in art occasionally). Some say they are inspired by their backgrounds, they want breaks from their academics, or because it helps them feel better when they’re down.
“In most of my life, I’ve been exposed to many forms of arts like painting, dance, and theater. I always find some way to think of things in, I guess you could say, an [artist’s] perspective, and it’s kind of how I understand most things,” adds Salazar.
The arts are a real part of us all. Letting humans improve on their arts allow them to express themselves better, resulting in a generally happier state of mind. So, with that in mind, the arts should definitely be more encouraged in PSHS. Let us maintain a safe space for students who are not only scientists, but artists too.
*Interviewee would like to remain anonymous.
