Art creates critical thinkers. In a recent study published in the Educational Researcher, students who were exposed to cultural institutions, like museums and performing arts centers, not only had higher levels of engagement with the arts but also displayed greater tolerance, historical empathy, and stronger critical thinking skills. Recent STEM educational trends (emphasizing science, technology, engineering and math) have swiftly transformed to STEAM theories, adding Art to the equation and proving you can’t take “art” out of “smart.”