Valuing Culture and Heritage through Arts Appreciation

Aaron Orville Nuqui Yumang

Art, just like other forms of communication, allows an individual to express his/ her feelings and emotions in varied creative pursuits. Art education is often underestimated by many who believe that school was created to teach only analytical concepts such as mathematics, science and literature. Yet, Howard Gardner qualified it as a Spatial Intelligence where the creative and most vivid eyes, minds and hearts are included. Hence, teaching Arts to students paves the way for them to value their culture and heritage as Filipinos.

We, Filipinos, always take a nostalgic phase towards our past and history for it is indeed rich. The richness of our history goes beyond historical accounts. It also encompasses our rich heritage and culture. There two facets of our history also cover artistic works and artifacts. Arts, in a way, allow us to venture into our rich culture and heritage.

W hen we let our students learn Arts particularly those which are associated with historical accounts open doors of opportunities for them to also learn and eventually appreciate our culture and heritage. Painting, sculptures, performances and even old artistic artifacts is an evident manifestation that our country has a brilliant lifestyle in the past.

As an Art teacher, let us be resourceful enough to connect our Arts lessons to varied the different era of the past that may lead them to fully understand the scope of Arts in relation to heritage and culture. Provide enough background knowledge for students regarding artistic works that will make them appreciate not only the works but also the history and culture they bring.

Art enhances not only the hands and eyes but as well as the well-being and personality of learners. Through our effective ways of teaching, students are able to travel to the past and appreciate culture and heritage as they bring with them the aesthetics of Arts.

--oOo-

II at San Matias High School

The author is Teacher