What role does art play in your life

I have heard many people say that life is what you make it. I agree. The events of your life impact you based upon the way in which you perceive them. Art is the same way. Art is sometimes not about the definitive work that went into each piece, it is about the excitment that comes from people's perception of it and because art has the ability to be interpreted at such a level, it plays a very pertinent role in our lives, our communties and in the development of our children.
The critically important role of art has been said to enable us to see the world and the human condition differently, and in seeing the world through a particular work of art, is to see a truth that we might not have understood before.
Artists have the ability to lay before us a truth that invites us to think. That thought process can create a charge that sparks movements. Take for instance, hip-hop. The unapologetic lyrics that the emcees spit into their mics sparked a desire for the common man to either “Stop the Violence” or “Get his Swag On”. Nonetheless, it provoked movement and a desire to be or become.
The power of art is limitless. Most art has some sort of reason or purpose behind it. It might be religious, symbolic, literal, traditional, customary, or just a preference by the artist.
Use African art as an example. Most African art has a symbolic reason. Masks, pottery, figures, portraits, jewelry, baskets and clothing reflect the religious belief of the different tribes. Africans believed that everything in nature is alive such as rocks, grass, plants, trees, rivers and mountains.
Expert Advisor Alec Colchico expressed that Art is important because it encompasses all the developmental domains in child development. Art lends itself to physical development and the enhancement of fine and gross motor skills. I include that it helps to develop their critical thinking skills as well.
Art brings beauty into our world. It brings a sense of enjoyment and pleasure. It is an important tool in causing us to examine our beliefs in light of an artists' rendition or perception of truth. Art has the ability to transport us to a different time and place and it serves as healer, educator, lover and friend.
Art has many roles in this world, what role does it play in your life?