Jordan Luty - Boston Conservatory Essay

In Leo Tolstoys book, What is Art?, he defines the seemingly simple concept of art in
several ways. Perhaps the most influential definition he provides is, To evoke in oneself a
feeling one has once experienced, and having evoked it in oneself, then, by means of
movements, lines, colors, sounds, or forms expressed in words, so to transmit that feeling that
others may experience the same feeling - this is the activity of art. Musicals, plays, songs,
paintings, and other forms of art are more than a pretty melody or visual; they have completely
shaped humanitys past by presenting ideas about mankind's environment and transmitting them
to others. Art allows humans to powerfully express opinions, while providing a creative outlet
that fosters feelings of acceptance and significance.
Quintessentially, we need art for cohesion. In conservative Kansas, arts programs are
experiencing a huge deficit due to budget cuts. This detrimentally affects our youth because
creative outlets are an integral aspect of students' learning environments, as well as society in
general. Through leadership positions in forensics, youth theatrical organizations, and band, I
have encountered many students who struggle with core subjects but excel and build confidence
through the arts curriculum.
Personally, the arts have shaped my life. Through the processes of casting, musicdirecting, directing, costuming, composing, choreographing, and accompanying shows, Ive
delved into every aspect of the performing arts. In my first creation, a musical based on Robert
Munschs Paper Bag Princess, I adapted a feminist piece of literature portraying the salience of
individuality. I have many other ideas for musicals, including Palindrome - a display of the
importance of specific events and how they influence the future - and Giving Tree, where a girl

disappointedly cast as a tree realizes she is the main character, signifying shows' reliance on
individual cast members over roles.
By providing a creative outlet fostering feelings of acceptance and significance, the arts
bolster creative expression. They allow me to think about situations in a more individual way, as
well as transmit ideas and provide a solace for those who need it most. Through art, I will
provide two things to my peers: stimulation and a home.