The Power of Art

Art is a form of expression that has been used for thousands of years.  People can draw, sculpt, paint, or dismantle ANYTHING, and it can be turned into something beautiful.  We can even combine various household objects to make brand new objects.  It is a great way to relax and calm the mind.  That is, if you use it correctly.

            Most people think you have to be “good” at art to participate in it.  They choose to ignore the beauty in a mess and can’t see past the flaws if their creation isn’t exactly how they originally envisioned it.  However, if we can see the true beauty in our pieces, then we have a better time being in the moment of the experience at hand.

            Art therapy is wonderful because it allows individuals to express how they are feeling, without having to put those emotions into words.  Sometimes we just don’t know what’s wrong.  We feel sad or frustrated, but we can’t pinpoint why.  Or maybe we simply do not want to say those words out loud.  We know how we feel, but saying it will just make it real.  Art gives us a way to explain those emotions in a more intimate way.

            So before you say, “nope, art isn’t really my thing.  I’m not that good at it.”  Stop right there!  Reevaluate the situation because you don’t need to do anything for anybody else’s benefit.  If you want to get your frustration out using a crayon and piece of paper, then so be it.  It does not have to be anyone else’s definition of “beautiful.”

 - Written by Jessica Skrelunas, intern