This book is a comprehensive introduction to the theory and practice of Community-Based Art Education (CBAE). CBAE encourages learners to make connections between their art education in a classroom setting and its application in the community beyond school, with demonstrable examples of how the arts impact responsible citizenship. Written by and for visual art educators, this resource offers guidance on how to thoughtfully and successfully execute CBAE in the pre-K–12 classroom and with adult learners, taking a broad view towards intergenerational art learning. Chapters include vignettes, exemplars of practice, curriculum examples that incorporate the National Coalition for Core Arts Standards, and research frameworks for developing, implementing, and assessing CBAE projects. “This is the book I have been waiting for—carefully researched, thought-provoking, and inspiring.” —Lily Yeh, Barefoot Artists Inc. “A practical guide for community-based art education that is theoretically grounded in social justice. Insightful suggestions for working with communities, planning, creating transformative learning, and evaluating outcomes are based in the authors’ deep experience. This book is a timely and welcome volume that will be indispensable to individuals and community organizations working in the arts for positive change.” —Elizabeth Garber, professor emeritus, University of Arizona

At the same time that arts funding and programming in schools are declining, exciting community-based art programs have successfully been able to build community, foster change, and enrich children's lives. Engaging Classrooms and Communities through Art provides a comprehensive and accessible guide to the design and implementation of community-based art programs for educators, community leaders, and artists. The book combines case studies with diverse groups across the country that are using different media - including mural arts, dance, and video - with an informed introduction to the theory and history of community-based art. It is a perfect handbook for those looking to transform their communities through art.

Ten graphic stories about artists, educators and activists across the United States.

Our intention is for the Arts and Education Handbook to stimulate those who value the arts and those who value a good education to work together at the local, state, and national levels towards their common goals. The exploring and identifying of common interests that is beginning to take place at the national level must take place systematically at the state and local levels. The advocates of the arts and of arts education at each governmental level must do a better job than in the past of demonstrating the value of the arts to the rest of the education community and to the general public. - Foreword.