Highlighting the fundamental concepts of discipline-based art education (DBAE), this essay supports a comprehensive elementary and secondary education visual arts teaching approach that features content and skill learning in art history, production, criticism, and aesthetics. Section 1, "The Arts and the Mission of Education," considers: (1) art education's role; (2) learning environments; and (3) the function of the arts in the schools. Section 2, "The Status of Art in the Schools," explores visual art in relation to emotions, talent, intelligence, assessments of student achievement; and creativity development. Section 3, "What Is Discipline-Based Art Education?" describes: (1) assumptions concerning how students learn about art; (2) DBAE course contents; (3) DBAE objectives; (4) alternative curriculum structures; (5) curricular activities; (6) the role of curriculum guides and resources; (7) evaluation processes; (8) ideal DBAE curriculum characteristics; and (9) the relationship of DBAE to the total education process. Two photographs of sculptures and 36 references are included. (JHP)