WHY THE ARTS MATTER

“…But the importance of the arts extends well beyond economics and education. The arts expand our horizons, unleash creativity and build social bonds. During this period of unsettling change, the arts can provide us with pleasure and comfort, while also challenging us to see the world in new ways. Two recent examples come to mind of the arts’ power to build community and create a sense of common experience. First was the inauguration ceremony of President Obama. Where did we turn to put this historic moment in perspective, to build a common sense of pride and hope for the nation’s future? We turned to the arts, of course, in the form of poetry, classical music and song, including performances by San Francisco’s own Boys Chorus and Girls Chorus. Locally, the power and appeal of the arts was in evidence on a recent Sunday when dozens of museums and other cultural institutions opened their doors for free.” Read more.