In this text we look at the visual art subject throughout history, how it’s been represented and what role it has played in society and education. In order to understand what perspectives and factors have molded the subject's current status. Moreover, we will look at what these perspectives say about the visual arts subject place in education. To answer these questions we go through some theories and thoughts from some of the more prominent researchers within the art education. In doing this we conclude that the different learning theories that were prominent around the 20th century, have helped create a view of knowledge and intellect that excludes the arts. This combined with different movements and teaching approaches within schools has in some ways made the arts into the break-subject - where you don't need to think - that many, in our society, see it as. Moreover, we conclude that more reliable research needs to be conducted for us to say, without a doubt, that the arts teach anything more than how to make, and read art.