As schools march to the tune of logic, the artists of tomorrow take a stand against society’s expressionless status quo. With many teenagers’ creative talent being swept aside in favour of English, maths and science, only a fanciful few campaign for artistic license.

We are all painfully aware of the core subjects. But with GCSE options giving us the illusion of choice, many find themselves short of options. A recent survey found that almost 1 in 10 teens dream of being artists- and yet have no creative stimulation for their aspirations. Most schools do not offer all-inclusive art clubs. Surely, this ought to be changed. 

Flora Smith, self proclaimed artist and GCSE art student, came forward with her opinion on the matter. “I love my art. My best works have come to me when I am emotional or depressed, and that’s what makes it so great for me. It’s a positive way of channelling your inner demons. School should offer a club that lets us do our own thing, while getting critical feedback and personal challenges.” Since her first stick figures, Flora has sought ways to improve her artwork, much like mankind’s own journey from cave paintings to animated figures.

Others disagree. Some decidedly more mature students argue that most artists are underpaid, and this generation deserves to be guided on a more stable path. 

Whatever your stance, let it be known that children with artistic dreams should be encouraged, not discouraged. Because in every young soul there is an aspiring De Vinci, Turner or Van Gogh- and as Churchill once said, if we get rid of art, ‘then what are we fighting for?’

Hannah Kent

Waldegrave School