Why We Make Art?
The act of art making is one of the most ancient and universal forms of communication. From drawing and painting to sculpture and multi-media, cultural expression takes many forms. But why do we make art?
The answer is likely a deep-seated need to express ourselves that has only grown and evolved over time. While it may be difficult to pinpoint the exact purpose of art, there are many different ways that art has enriched our lives.
Let’s take a closer look at why we make art and the many powerful benefits of creating it.
Psychological and Social Benefits of Making Art
The psychological and social benefits of making art are well documented. For starters, art-making can be a powerful tool for self-expression and identity formation. By creating art, we can explore our internal landscape in a way that is both meaningful and therapeutic.
In many cases, art-making can also help us develop better coping skills. It’s one of the few activities that are conducive to a safe and judgement-free environment, which can be incredibly impactful in managing stress, anxiety and other mental health issues.
Furthermore, creating art also helps us to connect with others. Many research studies have demonstrated the power of collaboration in art-making. Working as a group to create a visual artwork is an exciting and rewarding experience, as artists can draw inspiration from each other and create a truly unique piece that reflects their collective creativity.
Finally, art-making can also be a fantastic way to build a sense of community. By working together to create a piece of visual art or performance, we’re afforded a unique opportunity to make meaningful connections with people that we wouldn’t otherwise have.
Intellectual Benefits of Making Art
In addition to the psychological and social benefits, making art also has intellectual benefits. Creating art has been found to have a profound effect on our cognitive functioning. For starters, it helps sharpen our problem-solving skills and encourages creative, “out of the box” thinking.
The process of mastering the skills and techniques associated with creating art also helps to stimulate our brains and foster a better understanding of the materials and the world around us. Experiencing the artistic process from start to finish can also serve as an important lesson in perseverance and dedication, which is invaluable in any educational setting.
Art-making can also help to cultivate empathy, as it requires us to step outside of ourselves and consider the perspectives of others. By learning more about the art of many cultures and times, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of our world and become more tolerant and accepting of one another.
Finally, documenting your creations through sketchbooks or journals is a great way to capture your thoughts and reflect on your progress as an artist. This can help to strengthen our concentration and organizational abilities, while also improving our overall mental and physical wellbeing.
Fun Factor
Ultimately, art-making can also be a great source of enjoyment and playfulness. For children, the chance to express their creativity through art can be an incredibly powerful and rewarding experience. Not only does it offer a chance to explore their imaginations, but it can also help to build self-confidence and cultivate a positive self-image.
Adults can also benefit from the fun factor associated with art-making. By opening our minds and connecting with our creative side, we can unwind and de-stress in a way that’s meaningful and fulfilling. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned veteran in the world of art, getting lost and playing with materials can be a refreshing change of pace and a great way to recharge our batteries.
Making art is an incredibly valuable and rewarding experience. From psychological and social benefits, to intellectual advantages and a dose of fun and recreation, art-making is something that everyone can enjoy and benefit from. So the next time you’re feeling blue or sluggish, grab some paint, paper, clay or whatever else you enjoy and start making something!
