Reflection #7 Art Vs. Craft

Art Vs. Craft

ART:

• Art is both traditional and contemporary(1),(2)
• Generally about aesthetics rather than function(2)
• Whether the artist consciously or subconsciously has ‘something to say’, it is there within the finished piece(3) 
• Art has more emphasis on process and the result of exploring and experimentation with materials(3)
• For Kids:
• Children’s art projects are more kid directed and focus on the process
• The goal is for the children to express an idea or emotion in the final outcome(4)

CRAFT:

• In Craft, one employs learned skills to accomplish something. Technical knowledge is used to arrive at an optimal outcome (2)
• Craftwork is skilled work: any kind of craft must involve the application of a technique.  A craftsman has tools at command (3)
• Crafts traditionally were about using a handmade process to achieve an end result. It’s a leisure activity rather than a means to an end (2)
• For Kids:
• Children’s art projects are more kid directed and focus on the process. The goal is for the children to express an idea or emotion in the final outcome (4)

I think that both art and craft are important but feel that art is more important for the child's creativity and learning process in school. Craft seems more instructional and more for the kids to mimic and follow directions which can be used for things like holiday activities. Craft is also considered something you master and become very good at later in life but not as children quiet yet. Art is about expression and creativity which is what is focused on in an art class and when doing integrated work in the classroom and should be tied into curriculum. Both arts and crafts should be incorporated but for the most part art should be the main focus.

References:

1. ("Emphasis Art", frank Wochiak and Robert D. Clements)

2. ( "The Difference Between Art and Craft",  (2008), tanglecrafts.wordpress.com)

3. (" Art vs. Craft: Teacher Art Exchange", (2000), www.getty.edu/education/teacherartexchange)

4. ( "The Difference Between Kids Arts and Crafts", (2010), Tony Kummer, www.ministry-to-children.com)