1 minute read
The Benefits of Art
DID YOU KNOW?
Art Provides Historical Context
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Art does not exist in a vacuum; it provides context and information about cultural and societal histories, as well as the perspective of the artist in their time. Observing who we were as people from art in the past and present informs and inspires how we individually and collectively can respond to the world around us. Artists and art can create meaningful and powerful contributions to how a society grows and develops. In short, Art humanizes us, enriches our inner lives, engages communication, and has immense historical and societal value.
Art Reduces Stress
It has been proven time and again that both the viewing of art and the making of art contributes directly to positive mental well-being, boosting our immune systems, brain functions, and reducing stress.
Art Gives Us A Safe Space for Process and Dialogue
Art and art-making allows us to process experiences, and emotions that might normally feel too daunting, complex, or vulnerable. In particular, art has huge value in overcoming trauma and managing emotions, providing a unique method to allow the expression and exploration of our identity that allows healing to begin. In the same vein, Art allows conversation and dialogue around difficult subjects, fostering community understanding, empathy, and healing on a wide and accessible scale.
Art Strengthens Problem Solving
Creating art and allowing for creative exploration and experimentation makes us better problem solvers and critical thinkers. The open structure of creativity, the space to succeed, fail, and try new methods, is the basis of innovation; art-making engages critical thinking, decision making, and fosters the confidence to discover in the face of uncertainty.
Sources: Mowlah, et al. The Value of Arts and Culture to People and Society. Arts Council England., 2014. Kaimal, Girija, et al. “Reduction of Cortisol Levels and Participants’ Respons Following Art Making.” Art Therapy, vol. 33, no. 2, 2016, pp. 74–80. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.1080/07421656.2016.1166832. Cohut, Maria, PhD. “What Are the Health Benefits of Being Creative?” Medical News Today, 16 Feb. 2018, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320947#Improved-mental-health. Quito, Anne. “Art Can Sharpen Our Problem-Solving Skills. Here’s How.” Quartz, 20 July 2022, qz.com/work/2123715/art-can-sharpen-our-problem-solving-skills-heres-how.
