I have always been a creative person. Creativity has enriched my life and the lives of others around me in countless ways. Once in a while I’ll hear “I’m not a creative person” or “I could never make art”. I don’t believe that for a second. The art teacher in me strongly believes everyone has the capacity for creativity and the ability to make art, you just have to try.
Here are ten reasons to make art:
1) Making art will make you smarter
When you make art, you will think with new thoughts, ideas and imagery in a positive way. It’s way better than mental supplements, vitamins, or even coffee in the morning. Using all of your brain in the creative process is the ultimate brain boost that will carry over into your everyday life.
2) Creativity creates success
It doesn’t matter what business you are in, creative thinking will get you further ahead. I know it has been an important part of any of my successes (like creating a job for my self vs. applying for one).
3) Making art will make you healthier
The stresses in our lives can sometimes build up eventually causing health issues. The act of being creative can release pent up feelings. Making art can be just what you need to conquer internal negativity and conflicts. The creative process can release endorphins allowing us to experience a type of peace and ultimately personal growth.
4) Art will make you live longer
Many great artists lived very long life spans like Picasso and Matisse. They painted right up until the day they died. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to be smart and creative right to the end?
5) Free you’re self
The freedom of creating in the moment is intensely liberating and exhilarating. It’s better than anything!
6) You get to play
Once engaged in the creative process you can make anything you want. There are no wrong answers. If you let your self have fun then you are successful.
7) Cooking is art, writing is art, comedy is art, photography is art, gardening is art…
Art is whatever you make of it; you can do anything you want. Don’t get tied up in the notion art is just one thing. Be open to the possibilities of being creative and what comes from you is right for you.
8) You will challenge yourself
Once you start creating you will start to ask questions and expand the ways you look at things. We are never done at making art. The fact that it is never complete will start you on a quest of deep personal development.
9) Alone time can be beautiful
Those moments when your alone become precious and beautiful. Artists do not fear solitude they embrace it. You will find that some of your favorite moments will be when you’re alone creating art.
10) Art will change your way of seeing the world
This is a good thing. You will start to see beauty and patterns in things you never noticed before. You will re-discover your passions and will look through the world with a new lens and a new lease on life. Everything will just seem a bit brighter.
Karla Pearce is an artist, teacher and is the owner and director of the Creative Edge Gallery located in downtown Castlegar. For info call 250-365-2032 or www.creativeedgegallery.net.