Design Jam ...what is sacred...

UMS/Ross Design Jam

▲ Go back to the drawing board

SUN, OCT. 16, 2022

…what is sacred…

What is sacred in the arts? Staff members from the National Endowment for the Arts shared their thoughts several years ago. We asked our participants this question before and during the design jam and received responses that were insightful, moving, personal, and sometimes funny.

Our aim was to understand what it is that makes the arts a communion, not just a commercial transaction. It is technologically possible to create online streaming libraries of every hit sit-com from the 1970s, just as it is possible to get sugary, caffeinated bubble water to consumers around the world. But what is it about the performing arts that makes them worth fighting for, that merits creating a special place in our culture for them that stands outside of the demands of commerce?

Here is what our participants had to say:

The arts, indeed all of the humanities, bring humanity to us. Maybe if we admire what makes us human, maybe if we see the good creations that can come from humanity, we'd be less likely to harm one another and the planet. "

“Art is Matter. Art is the voice of the infinite sunrise and the heartbeat of darkness. Art means we are here and here we are.”

“Arts create meaning; they make what might be everyday occurrences transcend their origins. They create meaning for us not just as individuals, but as communities."

Studies have shown that, when people reflect on the most integrative, magical, and transformative experiences of their lives, these are overwhelmingly connections with music or other forms of artistic expression. ‘Without music, life would be a mistake.’"

"The arts are an opportunity to connect with the world in new and different ways, in addition to connecting with those around us.”

"It's hard for me to think about the arts without thinking of community. Artists create because they have something to say and perhaps to share. To me, sharing art is akin to starting a conversation."

“The arts are the apex of the human experience. They connect us in times of happiness and hardship. They speak to us in a way that words cannot. Arts are the universal language.”

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We are interested in finding out what you think. Take a moment to write up a statement about what you find sacred in the arts. We’ll use your thoughts as we advance these ideas.

Tell us what you think is sacred about the arts!

We are interested in finding out what you think. Take a moment to write up a statement about what you find sacred in the arts. We’ll use your thoughts as we advance these ideas.

Answer here »

▲ Go back to the drawing board

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