Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once [s]he grows up.
~ Pablo Picasso
May every disciple take care not to cling to words, as if they were a perfect expression of the meaning; because truth is not in the letters.
~ Lankavatara Sutra
You are the artist, you are the raw material, you are the work of art and you are the reality behind the work of art...One experiences ecstasy when one discovers the creator in one, as oneself.
~ Pir Vilayat Inayat Khan
Throughout history, we humans have used art to express ourselves. We create art not only to represent and beautify our world, but also as a means of understanding and sharing who we are in our world. Through creative self-expression, we grow in self-awareness, generate insights, resolve problems, and enhance our overall well-being.
However, if you're like many adults, somewhere along the way you may have decided, perhaps without even realizing it, that art-making is not for grown-ups, or at least not for grown-ups like you. As much as you may like art on the walls and (especially if you share your home with children) the refrigerator, it seems the art-making is best left to artists and children. After all, when it comes to art, isn't patronage the appropriate role for productive members of society?
You know that you are one such adult if, when invited to draw, doodle, or otherwise engage in some creative activity, you find yourself feeling uncomfortable, perhaps even anxious or mildly panicked. This discomfort is usually accompanied by thoughts that sound something like this, "This is a waste of time," "please tell me you're kidding," and often culminate in a final protest "But I can't draw."
Yup, that's when you know that a whole lot of your brain is just withering away from the lack of intentional use. However, thanks to neuroplasticity--our brains' ability to change its structure and functioning in response to experience--this condition(ing:) is easily treated. The good news is that with just a little conscious creativity, you can become a smarter, happier, healthier human being. Here are five good reasons why engaging in artistic self-expression may be just the thing for you.
