Chances are that you were involved with art education when you were in school.

Nationally, approximately 2/3 of all students participate in one or more art classes on any given day. There are many studies that have shown how art classes (music, dance, visual arts, theater, etc.) improve test scores, increase graduation rates and have many other benefits.

A 2018 survey indicated over 90% of people felt that it is important for children to be educated in the arts.

If we think that arts education is so important for children, does it become less important for adults? When was the last time you participated in the arts? And by participate I don’t mean supporting or attending, but making art.

There’s a few things that you might be saying to yourself right now as to why you don’t participate.

• “I don’t have time” Although I still find myself saying it, I have learned that it is more empowering for me to recognize that when I say this, I really mean, “That is lower on my priority list.” It is not possible for me to do all of the things that I could do. Part of my goal is to convince others of the benefits of increasing their participation in the arts. Yes, it takes effort and commitment to “find the time,” but the rewards are worth it.

• “I’m not good enough” Recently, I have had to come face to face with my own sense of inadequacy in my artistic endeavors. I can relate to the thought of, “I’m not good enough.” The wonderful thing about art is that it doesn’t matter. In my case, it was in relation to getting paid for my art, and in that case, yes, it does matter. However, for what I am advocating, it doesn’t. Some art you can make on your own and never share with anyone. Additionally, the only way to get better at something is to do it over and over again.

“There are no opportunities” The first two issues (time and confidence) are mostly on the individual, but the question of opportunity is one that I believe requires the community. There is only so much that one person can do. This is the whole reason that I started the Cassville Arts Council — to contribute to that community effort. My particular area of focus is on musical theater, and that is where I am working to create opportunities in that area. Other art forms are important to me too, so I am willing to devote time and energy to facilitate others in those areas, but I need others to help.

Here are some things that you can do to create more opportunities for yourself and others to participate in the arts (from least to most effort): 1. Be encouraging of others, especially those who are just starting out or restarting.

2. Attend performances and events 3. Give money; even if the artists aren’t being paid there are plenty of expenses.

4. Volunteer; every arts group that I’ve ever known has needed more volunteers.

5. Lead; step up and put something together.

It doesn’t have to be through the Cassville Arts Council — but we are willing to work with you and can help you with any of those steps.

In my last column, I highlighted various arts organizations in the area and the great things that they are doing. There are a couple of arts events coming up this week that I am a part of.

On April 24 at Crowder College Cassville, there will be an open mic poetry reading. Current Crowder and high school students can participate but everyone is welcome to listen. There will be prizes available for participants.

On July 13, at 3 p.m. at the Monett Performing Arts Center, the Ozark Festival Orchestra will perform a fundraising concert featuring JC Fisher and Marcus Collins of The Texas Tenors. I have the privilege of singing a couple of numbers with them and the orchestra, as well.

Trent Oliphant is the Founder and President of the Cassville Arts Council.

He may be reached at cassvillearts@gmail.com.