Developing My Paragraphs

If Rhys Southan and Titus Kaphar were ever to meet and discuss the purpose of art, they would find themselves agreeing about the majority of things.  For example, they both believe that art can be used for a greater purpose than it is currently.  Titus believes his art can amend the history that has been depicted in art, this is evident when he says “I’m trying to answer that question that my son had.  Why do some have to walk?”.  Whereas Southan almost believes that only quality art is worthwhile because only quality art can make a difference.  This is shown in a conversation he has with an EA member named Hilton.  In this conversation Hilton and Southan are discussing his screenplay, when asked it’s any good Southan has an epiphanius thought, “if the movie in question is clearly frivolous, this seems impossible to justify ethically.  If, on the other hand, you’re making the best movie of all time… well, it could almost start to be worthwhile.”  I think that Titus and Southan would agree that only the best art is going to make a difference in the world, the only difference between them is that Southan thinks that art that isn’t the best is a waste of time and resources, however Titus never mentions his opinion on mediocre art.

Studies have already been conducted that show the positive effects art can have.  For example, a study was conducted by The National Endowments For The Arts that concluded that at-risk students who are exposed to high level art programs can succeed academically and become more actively involved in the community.  This is most likely due to the students having to think creatively.  Art can also be a positive distraction for youth who need some type of escape from the real world, they can channel their feelings into a physical piece of art which would be quite therapeutic.  Lastly, artists are able to raise awareness through their art, much like what Titus wanted to do.  Overall the takeaway is that art is used in many ways to make a difference in the world, so to call it “a waste of time” would just be incorrect.

Originally, I found it difficult to critique my own work.  This was probably due to a combination of pride and stubbornness.  However, using the Little Seagulls Handbook I was able to more easily target exactly what I needed to fix.  For example, I tried having my roommate read some of my paragraphs and he said that the wording was a little unclear at some points.  To fix this I reworded a lot of the sentences.