It was such a pleasure to speak with Vivian Doublestein this morning. She is the founder and director of the Master’s Academy of Fine Arts (MAFA), and she really knows what she is talking about. Vivian listed three cornerstones of the academy: freedom, creativity, and excellence. It is clear from listening to her that these elements are integrated into every part of her own life.
It is too easy to think of the arts as elective in nature; courses like drama, music, art, and art history are considered the “expendable” subjects. It has often been considered not a loss when a program for the arts is cut from our education system. Add into that how difficult it is to find ways to incorporate the arts into homeschooling, and you have an even more elusive discipline. But art and art forms are very important. I remember singing songs in Latin and German in my high school chorale. My parents took me to every art museum within driving distance as I was growing up exposing me to wonders both literal and abstract in nature. Math was daunting, but learning timing in my piano lessons made sense. The list goes on and on. Music, drama, and all the different art forms make us more rounded individuals and more open to new ideas and cultures.
If you are struggling with how to incorporate arts into your curriculum, visit www.mafa.net and see if there is a program near your home. If not, check with the local schools and find out what they are doing. Many private schools will allow you to join in for their music and art programs. Start a drama troupe at your church. Remember, God created us to be artistically expressive–our gifts are all different, but they are God given and need to be explored in order for us to be the best we can be.
Candy Devore
