Art can be a controversial topic, no matter what type of art is being discussed. Most people wouldn't automatically think of sign language when they hear the word “art.” American Sign Language is an amazing form of communication, incorporating different art forms within the art itself. Sign language incorporates facial expressions, space and movement. This art form allows deaf people to communicate with others. Some people in the education system don't think sign language is a positive art form because it separates the deaf from the hearing. Others are trying to find ways to “fix” deaf people so they can be more like most people. Instead of adapting to the deaf and learning their language, many want them to learn to speak. Sign language is an important art and form of communication that is often overlooked. Sign language may not be as poetic as French, or as widely used as Spanish, but it is an important form of communication that helps connect those who are deaf to the hearing world. People who don't consider sign language an art form should try to connect it to another art form, such as dance. Dance and sign language share many of the same characteristics, such as facial expressions, space and movement. Dancers rely heavily on facial expressions to translate the mood of the dance to the audience. People who use sign language depend on facial expressions to get their point across. “The facial expressions you use while making a sign will influence the meaning of that sign. For example, if you sign the word 'quiet' and add an exaggerated or intense facial expression, you are telling your audience to be 'very quiet'” (Vicari). Art can also involve space, which is incorporated into the sign... in the middle of the paper... nit. Cochlear implants have many effects on the art of sign language. The implants are causing hearing-impaired people to lose their native language. If you decide to get a cochlear implant, you should still practice sign language to stay connected to the deaf community. Many people clearly promote sign language and others are very much against it. Deaf people should not be forced to speak or hear if it is against their will. Deaf people already have to live in a hearing world, so hearing people should do everything they can to make the minority feel welcomed instead of trying to change them. People who negatively criticize a certain type of art are often not educated enough on that specific topic. Every type of art is unique and incredible, but sometimes people fail to recognize the extraordinary qualities of a particular art form.