As an art therapist who sees people use their creativity and art making as way to find innovative solutions to promote their own healing - I totally agree! Thanks for providing examples of art contributing to society in more ways that just "making things look pretty"!

I'm intrigued by the study you reference in your second-to-last paragraph. Where might we find it, on-line or elsewhere?

Once again the Root-Bernsteins have made a cogent case for the the overlap of science and art. We should always remember the importance of creativity and artistry for our general well being. Not only do the arts improve our lives by adding beauty and meaning, but also by advancing technology.

"“The intuitive mind is a sacred gift and the rational mind is a faithful servant. We have created a society that honors the servant and has forgotten the gift.” Einstein

Science + Math = a Technician
Science + Math + Creativity = An inventor

The dominant paradigm in economic development and the new economy is driven by a rather primitive model articulated by Richard Florida in the "Creative Class". His paradigm suggests that a communities role is to be "attractive" to the creative class ie. have interesting places for them to entertain themselves.

Dr's Robert and Michele Root-Bernstein offering a more substantive and empowering paradigm, that families and communities can stimulate the creation of "inventors" by providing an environment in which creativity is encouraged and developed in each individual!
Thank-you for providing the leadership, vision and intellectual expertise to articulate these important issues.

Thanks for the great article! Well said!

FYI

and without it there would be no history of our human evolution. Everything we know about our development was somehow derived from some form of artistic creativity. Small children do not need to be taught to draw, it is instinctive. I have volunteered many times for the Very Special Arts program and am continually amazed at the way an art project sparks the light in children who can not otherwise express themselves or feel a sense of accomplishment.

Taking funds away from the arts will hurt every single one of us, but more importantly, it will affect the very quality of life in many individuals.

It has already been cut back in our schools to the point that children are losing the problem solving skills that are so necessary when they come upon a situation that does not confirm to a set of rules. The Arts are a vital foundation for our future scientists, doctors, leaders and so many more.

Thank you for writing this article. I sure hope those in a seat of power read it and believe in the power of art. And will take steps to protect and support the arts.

Take a look at this article on Visual Thinking Strategies, from Edutopia.org, which explores the use of art in classrooms across the country: http://www.edutopia.org/visual-thinking-strategies-art-curriculum

Also, this article, from Boston.com, about the use of Visual Thinking Strategies at Harvard Medical School: http://www.boston.com/ae/theater_arts/articles/2008/07/20/monet_gauguin_...

Great article! However, I wouldn't want anyone to come away with the idea that art is of value because of its role in scientific and technical advances. That would only be to accept the downgrading of emotional wellbeing over material wellbeing.

Great article. I agree that we should spread the word that "successful scientists and inventors are artistic people. Hobble the arts and you hobble innovation" to our legislators need. It is equally important to spread the word to the artists themselves.

great article, so glad i found this!

Hello everybody,

I'm happy to describe at this page www.theinvestblog.com an interesting
type of making money. Do you know that one
may make up to 3% a day through by investing without limitations in sums ?
I mean that even if one has US$1.000,00 one may make the same amount in a month !

If someone is interested welcome to my blog http://www.theinvestblog.com.

Great site...keep up the good work.

Cool blog you got here. I'd like to read a bit more about this matter.