Prompted by a parent's comment that indicated a desire for her elementary-age children to learn the elements and principles of design in their art class, the author set out to enrich her own understanding and appreciation of the language used in the art room. Looking at word origins helps students appreciate the significance of art and craft in the human condition through the ages. Such study promotes discovery of connections between and within subject areas, including art, and allows for affective learning through the power of storytelling. The author concludes that language is like a living organism that constantly evolves to adjust to new environmental conditions including changes in lifestyle, technologies, scientific discoveries, and social realities. The stories that emerge can provide students with greater contextual awareness and a new perspective regarding concepts routinely used in the art room. The study of word origins contributes to a greater understanding of the role art plays in shaping current language and thinking. Through etymology, the author finds that such words can also be seen as a philosophical basis for creating a thoughtful design for living. (Contains 6 end notes.)