The Therapeutic Power of Art: Sharing Our Personal Experiences
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EPISODE 179
In this season finale, Richie and I discuss the healing power of art and how creativity has helped us both process emotions, find mindfulness, and reconnect with our playful side. I share how painting helped me navigate grief and social anxiety in my twenties, while Richie talks about how he accidentally discovered the meditative benefits of photography and why, as humans, we need struggle and challenge in our lives.
Plus, I’ve got a special announcement about my upcoming course, Modern Mixed Media. We'll be taking a short break and will return later this year with new episodes—see you then!
Here is a summary of what we discussed:
Childlike Wonder:
We talk about the beauty of approaching art with childlike enthusiasm, allowing ourselves to explore and enjoy the process without self-imposed limitations.Art as Meditation:
We discuss how our creative pursuits have helped us both see more beauty in everyday life. These activities transform mundane moments into meditative experiences, allowing us to appreciate the small things.Emotional Expression Through Art:
I open up about using painting to process deep emotions such as grief and loss. Art can be a powerful outlet for feelings we often bury, providing a way to express and navigate complex emotions.Creative Freedom:
Even as professional creatives, it’s crucial to carve out time for personal projects. This keeps our passion alive and allows for emotional expression, reminding us of the joy and freedom that initially drew us to our art.Play and Experimentation:
We emphasize the need for playfulness in art, encouraging ourselves to ask, “What would be fun to do today?” This mindset invites experimentation and keeps our creative practice fresh and engaging.Embracing Imperfection:
The creative process isn’t always smooth. We discuss how struggles and failures are essential for growth and resilience, reminding us that each setback can lead to deeper insights and improved skills.Confidence Building:
Overcoming creative challenges can shift our mindset from “I can’t do that” to “I can do that,” boosting our confidence. This newfound self-belief empowers us to take on new creative endeavors with enthusiasm.Authentic Expression:
I talk about learning through art how to embrace my true self, shedding societal expectations and allowing my quieter, playful side to shine. This authentic expression fosters a deeper connection with myself and my work.New Possibilities:
Inspired by newfound confidence, I’m exploring exciting new ideas, from writing a book to starting an artisan business. This journey of self-discovery opens doors to creative possibilities I hadn’t considered before.
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WANT MORE INSPIRATION?
My 6-week signature course, Modern Mixed Media, will help you gather inspiration, build skills in watercolour and mixed media, and develop your unique style. Registration is opening soon, so click the button below to join the waitlist. Thousands of students have connected with their creativity through this course—don’t miss out on the next intake!
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