Peace Education in Art: Study of Conflict and Harmony.

Overview & Synopsis

Strategies for organizing and sequencing peace education programs in art education are explored. First, the concept of peace and the development of peace education are examined. The affirmation of peace as life, justice, and freedom contains four areas of study for art education: (1) human relations; (2) cultural diversity; (3) the environment; and (4) global awareness. Nordic Paradise, a peace education program organized by Nordic art educators, utilizes these four areas. The project was based on the principle that pictures are language. Students examined art works that represented human relations, the environment, war, political situations, social issues, and other relevant subject matter. The linking of art with other subject areas, such as history and science, makes in-depth study of aspects of peace possible. Peace education is a life long process and art education should take an active and leading role in organizing peace education programs. (KM)