Art majors will tell you that art is more than just making pretty pictures. Art is a field that has often been brushed off by society but has made huge contributions to our culture.

From large classic masterpieces to a child learning how to draw, art evokes emotion and gives viewers a unique personal perspective.

“Art lets people work their brains. It gives people things to think about that they wouldn’t necessarily think about otherwise,” Lauren Wozniak, senior drawing major, said.

The message that art conveys is also unique for every individual. Learning from others’ perspectives is something that artists often thrive on.

“Everyone who views a piece of art has a unique personal perspective and that affects what they get from the art. It doesn’t necessarily have to be what the artist intended,” Chelsea Koechle, senior drawing and art education major, said.

A key component of being an artist is the passion to create. Wozniak will tell you it is a drive that is programmed inside her.

“I have always been into art ever since I was little. I need to do it. I need to create things and produce things. It makes me feel happy and everything around me better. It’s something I truly enjoy and I am passionate about. I can’t see myself doing anything else,” Wozniak added.

The ability to create is unique to all artists, and is often what sets them apart. It is one of the skills that makes them employable in many other fields.

Cally Lindenmier / Daily Vidette Photographer: Heather Campbell, senior studio arts lithography major, works on a watercolor painting of a wolf during class Thursday afternoon in the Center for Visual Arts.

“One of the biggest reasons I think art is so important is because you can conceptualize something in your mind and make it come out into fruition. It’s something that a lot of people are not able to do, to visualize things internally and project it into something great,” Ashlee Fears, senior intaglio major, said.

The ability to create is not the only thing that artists must have to be successful. A large amount of passion is also required. Often times people do not understand art, and this results in it being underappreciated.

“A lot of people have the viewpoint that art doesn’t matter  because it isn’t furthering our society. This is completely false. Art builds up our culture and society no matter where you are. Art is a beautiful thing, there are so many messages you can share. It is powerful stuff,” Koechle said.

Many have a passion for art, but do not seek out the profession because they fear unemployment. However, careers for artists are available. Working at museums and on movie sets are just a few careers for artists.

“There are a lot more jobs than people think about. Photo shoots, hand-painted sets ­— lots of things could potentially lead to a job,” Fears said.

Art education is also is a path that many art majors take.

“ISU has an incredible education program. I can only speak for the School of Art, but ISU graduates are highly ranked for getting art education jobs,” Cynthia Kukla, art professor, said.

“I have always wanted to be a teacher. It has never changed. Even being an art teacher you aren’t guaranteed a job. If you have a passion for art you do whatever you can. If you have an opportunity you will go with it,” Koechle said.