What are the benefits of students studying contemporary art?

As the
previous educator mentioned, "benefits" are subjective. There are some who say that
studying art is a waste of time and that students benefit more by focusing on more
"practical" subjects, such as science, technology, engineering, and math, otherwise
known as the STEM fields.

What these detractors do not realize is that the
study of the arts, particularly visual art, is very helpful in teaching young people new ways of
seeing their worlds. Visual artists, such as painters and photographers, encourage us to see
those aspects of life that we might take for granted or not otherwise notice. 

Art can inspire imaginative exploration, which can expand into other areas, such as
technological innovation. The study of the arts encourages us to "think outside of the
box," or to see other possibilities beyond what we already know.

Subjects in contemporary art tend to deal with themes in contemporary life or with the
subjects that interest us now. It also applies versatile techniques that encourage us to think
beyond our traditional understanding of what art can be. Contemporary art includes not only
painting and photography, but also a lot of conceptual art, such as textual art (e.g., Jenny
Holzer, Lawrence Weiner). It also allows for the use of non-traditional materials, such as
recycled trash.

Finally, the study of contemporary art, along with the other
humanities, is key in teaching students empathy. Art allows us to "see" through
another person's eyes, which gives us access to an experience we might not otherwise have. The
ability to empathize is fundamental to a cohesive society.