An Uneasy Guest in the Schoolhouse: Art Education from Colonial Times to a Promising Future

An Uneasy Guest in the Schoolhouse explores the history of art education in the US, highlighting its marginalization and failure to be justified as a good in and of itself. Despite this, 21st century art education has exploded with new ideas aligned with progressivism and contemporary art practices. Understanding the history and current challenges is essential for arts researchers, educators, and advocates.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 13 April 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

An Uneasy Guest in the Schoolhouse delves into the historical, pedagogical, and advocacy aspects of art education in the United States, highlighting its ongoing marginalization within the education system. Author Winner examines the various rationales offered throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, arguing that art education has struggled to establish itself as a valuable good in its own right. This lack of justification has had a profound impact on the status and quality of visual art education in schools, as well as the broader perception of art as an essential component of education.

Winner's comprehensive book offers a detailed exploration of the recurrent pendulum swings between traditional and progressive approaches to art education in the United States. Drawing from her firsthand experiences observing art teaching in schools in China and Italy, she provides a rich tapestry of insights into the diverse practices and perspectives of art education across different cultures. Despite the challenges and uncertainties of the past, the 21st century has witnessed a remarkable resurgence of art education in the United States and abroad. This resurgence is driven by a renewed commitment to progressivism, aligning with the ideals of the early 20th century and informed by the practices of contemporary art.

Winner's book is a valuable resource for arts researchers, educators, advocates, and anyone interested in understanding the history and current state of art education. By delving into the past, analyzing contemporary challenges, and embracing new ideas, readers can gain a deeper appreciation of the importance of art education in shaping individuals and society. The book serves as a call to action, urging educators, policymakers, and the public to recognize the transformative power of art education and invest in its development to ensure a vibrant and inclusive 21st-century education.

Weight: 420g
Dimension: 243 x 164 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780190061289