Two Avenues for Emotional Growth: How the Subjective and Objective Elements of Art Support Mental Health

Art offers two distinct learning pathways that contribute to emotional development. The objective elements such as rhythm, pitch, line, and colour can be observed, measured, and refined. The subjective elements like expression, intention, and authenticity invite personal meaning and emotional exploration. Each supports mental health in a different way.

The objective aspects of art help children connect with reality. When they adjust the timing of a rhythm or rework the balance of a composition, they are engaging with something outside of themselves. These elements provide clear feedback and build a sense of structure. This process teaches persistence, focus, and the value of steady effort. It helps students form a healthy relationship with the world around them through learning that is grounded and trackable. Being held accountable to the objective and measurable parts of art can be emotionally taxing for a young artist, but the subjective parts of art support and cultivate a strong self-image that is able to approach and refine these objective elements.

The subjective elements offer a different kind of learning. Here, students reflect on their emotions, values, and identity. They are encouraged to express what they feel without fear of being right or wrong. This supports self-acceptance and allows for emotional honesty. It builds a sense of safety and trust in their own experience, which is fundamental to emotional health.

When both types of learning are developed together, they support one another. Objective skills give students the tools to express themselves clearly and with care. Subjective expression gives them the motivation to build those skills with intention. This balance fosters personal insight, resilience, and creative confidence.

The combination of subjective and objective elements helps students grow emotionally. They learn to improve their work without losing their voice and to express themselves freely while staying connected to the world around them.