This presentation is based on a framework for understanding universal aesthetic operations through the arts across cultures, languages, abilities, and development levels. It frames the centrality of the arts in our anthropological roots and human biology. Current brain research and the substantial body of critical evidence on the arts impact on learning and development highlight benefits to individuals and the community. Participants will experience the arts as a language, its ability to spark a cognitive-emotional connection, and its creative and critical thinking cycle as processes for advancing learning. These experiences are also intended to inspire and support the importance of teachers', higher education faculty's and administrators' personal engagement with the arts to fully recognize how the arts support the 21st Century Learning skills of creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication.