An extraordinary look at Rembrandt's self-portraits through the years.
STEM vs. STEAM
(from the University of Florida)
Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) are the center of attention in most U.S. public schools today. The focus on STEM fields was initiated to increase global competitiveness and the project does have its merits. However, it has left the arts (the "A" in STEAM) languishing far off in the periphery. This is quite unfortunate, as art education is known to improve academic performance.
- On average, students who study the arts for 4 years in high school score 98 points higher on the SATs compared to those who study the same for half a year or less.
- Students who took up music appreciation scored 61 points higher on the verbal section and 42 points higher on the math section.
Of the elementary schools with arts, the most common subjects revolve around music at 94% and visual studies at 83%. Only 3% offer dance instruction while 4% provide theater arts.
Training in the arts has been shown to improve creativity and innovation. Students learn to approach issues with a critical mind and a positive attitude towards problem solving. Exposure to the arts enhances communication skills, which are essential tools for collaboration. It develops flexibility and adaptability. The government recognizes these and, indeed, 48 states have adopted standards for art instructions.
However, 51% of art teachers are unhappy about what they see as the decline in art education brought about by the shift in focus. The difficulty in measuring art’s contribution to academic performance has led to its under-appreciation.
STEAM could be an answer.
33 Things Your Brain Doesn't Know About Itself
Human brains may be self-aware, but most are hazy on the details. To help you wrap your head around this enigmatic organ, here's an illustrated blast of mind-blowing brain facts. http://www.mnn.com/health/fitness-well-being/blogs/33-things-your-brain-doesnt-know-about-itself
Cartoonist's Take on "Drawing From The..."
Published in 2012 in the Detroit News-Press. The "Speed Bump" comic strip by Dave Coverly. (With thanks to Mike Bignell in Brighton, Michigan, who shared the cartoon.)
Jeremy Tarcher, 1932-2015
Jeremy Tarcher, the original publisher of Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain in 1979, passed away in September 2015. He was always a champion of Dr. Edwards' work, and his faith in her had tremendous results: her book has remained a best-seller up to the present day. http://www.nytimes.com/2015/09/24/business/media/jeremy-p-tarcher-publisher-of-nonfiction-best-sellers-dies-at-83.html?_r=0
