Having an artist as a friend is one of the greatest gifts life can give. Artists see things in new and interesting ways, are outside-the-box thinkers, and usually a lot of fun to be around. You may have friends in any one of the arts, from writing to painting to crafting to acting to comedy to other forms of creation. The arts make a valuable contribution to society. They lift people up when they are down and provide a release for so many difficult emotions. The arts give us a way to celebrate joy while processing sorrow. They are invaluable.