Presents reasons why art education should be considered a mainstream discipline. The author argues that art educators must use their skills in visual media to communicate the importance of visual literacy. The relevance of art to work skills, language acquisition, and cultural values is examined. (AM)

A review of reports, a survey, and national assessments of art education shows that visual art students are not learning art knowledge and skills because art teachers do not teach art appreciation, art history, or design and drawing skills. Priorities concerning art education content and teaching methods must be changed. (RM)