This primary, exploratory study combines the limited literature on arts magnet schools with the writings of arts activists and the narratives of several arts magnet school administrators in an attempt to understand arts magnet schools better. The paper illuminates some of the strengths of arts magnet schools as well as some of the limitations and challenges facing administrators, parents, and students of arts magnet schools. The paper provides a brief history of magnet schools; discusses visual and performing arts magnet schools; and presents a review of the magnet school literature. The paper points out the importance of remembering that each arts magnet setting, whether elementary, middle, or high school, has unique strengths and challenges related to its students, teachers, families, facilities, curriculum, and communities. (Contains 39 references.) (BT)