The daughter of two artists and an artist and counselor myself, I am never surprised to see studies documenting the therapeutic benefits of the art-making process. When the American Counseling Association's monthly magazine, Counseling Today, arrived in my mailbox, I was happy to find the article: "Thinking creatively: Expressive arts for counseling youth in the schools."
The author, Patricia Velsor, shares several illuminating points, including that "students participating in an after-school arts program showed increases in self-esteem, social skills and leadership." I have taught art in an after-school setting- and I now facilitate an experiential expressive arts group- and I can attest to this fact! Most of us learned to put away our pencils and paint-brushes at some point- that we are no good as artists. But, there is nothing like rediscoverying the benefits of the creative process.
Everyone can make art. We are all inherently artists because we are intelligent creative beings. The art-making process allows us to get in a flow state and connect with something larger than ourselves- often times each other- a good thing in an increasingly fragmented and individualistic society!
Athenians, need a little inspiration? Consider entering the Lyndon House juried art show (deadline: Friday, February 8th) and/or attending the gala opening Sunday March 3rd. Read the call for entries.
If that doesn't float your boat, pick up a Flagpole to find what other art and art classes are available around town. I will leave it to local venues to promote their specific offerings. Just know that when you engage in the art-making process, you are opening yourself up to its many-colored therapeutic benefits!
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