Recent debates on the place of the arts in American life has refocused attention on art education in schools. In this book, the author puts current debate and concerns in a well-researched historical perspective. He examines the institutional settings of art education throughout Western history, the social forces that have shaped it and the evolution and impact of alternate streams of influence on present practice. The book treats the visual arts in relation to deve… More >>
#1 by Jason W. Marchmon on July 2, 2010 - 3:36 pm
Do the arts deserve a higher place in our children’s education? Yes… and no… It depends on your outlook in relation to history. This text places art education within the social context of general education in the West (most specifically America for a majority of the book). Doing so allows for an examination of why one generation may learn about art and its process, while the next generation will remain almost entirely ignorant of traditions and methods of artistic creation. Art lovers (and haters) as well as history enthusiasts (education, art, social currents, etc…) will certainly enjoy.
Rating: 5 / 5
#2 by K. A. Cook on July 2, 2010 - 4:16 pm
I have not yet finished this book, which is why I can’t give it 5 stars. But it is brilliantly written with a strong thesis which is supported throughout. The way it ties the history of the arts and societal differences into the educating of artists and arts education is incredibly clever. I’m currently going to school for art, history and education and this book ties them altogether in a way that makes learning the information incredibly interesting and useful. Arthur Efland is my new hero.
Rating: 4 / 5
#3 by lotus on July 2, 2010 - 4:49 pm
This is really the only text book on the subject but it is really dry reading. Another problem is the organization. Generally I prefer my textbooks to be fairly linear, this is not. It bounces back and forth in time. If you were fairly familiar with art ed. history and using this as reference for a paper. not really a problem but if you are trying to grasp event A followed by event B, you will need some other supplementary material. good luck.
Rating: 3 / 5
#4 by J. Landin on July 2, 2010 - 5:34 pm
This is an excellent review of the historical approaches to art in education. My personal interests lie in the pre-1960 eras, especially pre-1930s. This is the best reference I have found on this topic – it thoroughly explains each educational philosophy and tactic, and the historical ramifications of those actions.
Rating: 5 / 5
#5 by Patricia A. Beck on July 2, 2010 - 5:51 pm
I know that I ordered this book knowing that it would be “dry” reading but then found while looking through it that I wasn’t even interested in the history of Art Ed, I’m only interested in what’s happening now! So, I really can’t review a book that I haven’t even read!
Rating: 2 / 5