Creativity and Happiness
Artists intrigue me. I love that a person can place a drop of paint on a canvas and then create an image seen only within their mind. Adding more color and more swift, smooth strokes from their hands, they have soon created a piece of art that looks like it could have been a photograph.
My Amish grandfather was such an artist. While their culture (and religion) regards any human image, whether a photo or painting, sinful, my grandfather had the ability to create pictures of animals, an early homestead, and signs that were nothing less, than beautiful works of art.
One of my sons has inherited that ability and I, along with many who own his paintings, share the idea that artwork is an amazing gift! I am totally devoid of the gift of painting or drawing, especially if asked to create something from within the memory of my mind! It doesn’t happen.
On the other hand, I am able to put words on paper (or computer) which enables others to formulate thoughts and ideas in their minds of pictures they imagine the words are saying. Additionally, I am able to create stories children (and others) can read, many of which are for the disability community.
What’s interesting is how artwork is not limited to those of us who are not disabled. Creativity in whatever form it comes, is alive and well in the world of disabilities! Those with disability backgrounds are seeing performers, painters, writers, designers, and musicians, taking a creative stand. These ideas are contributing to altering social perceptions of what the disability world looks like.
Those who partake in the forums or programs available to foster growth in creative activities, are discovering a variety of growth in other ways, as well. Increased self-esteem and sense of purpose, improving communication skills and even aiding better choice making, is a bonus many hadn’t expected.
Art in the various forms often offers a non-verbal way to communicate emotions, thoughts and feelings which are expressed in unique ways beautifully, through music, painting, theatre and other artful expression. Art has the ability to even lower stress.
As lyrics are written for music, pictures created from the lives they live, or performances on the stage played to display feelings, each person, regardless of ability, can express themselves.
It’s hard, however to ‘put yourself out there.’ A person opens themself to criticism, disapproval, insensitivity of those who don’t understand, and even rejection. Even as a writer, there are days I cringe as I write words I’m afraid other people won’t understand or accept.
A person who has a disability must work through their fears which are compounded beyond mine, because of their disability! Anxiety can overwhelm. Group work can be taxing as collaboration is required and team work expected; and private emotions rise to the top causing a rawness not always welcomed.
Still, to experience the power that comes with being able to share success and even defeats through the various art media, a person grows emotionally, intellectually, and even relationally. This fact may be even more paramount within the disability community where rejection and the lack of expectation is commonplace.
As you reflect on your life, even if art in any form has never been considered an option, a class in any of the many forms it comes, may be for you. Whether it’s digital art, creating jewelry, sculpture, fashion, dance, poetry, animation, photography, basketweaving, pottery, flower arranging, woodworking or a hundred more in between, you can find yourself immersed in a gratifying experience. It matters not what your ability, or lack thereof. Discover your gifts and be happy!