Art Alleviates by Sahasra

Have you ever been told that art’s not valuable compared to other skills?

Now, what if I told you that it is of importance, so much more than you initially anticipated? What if I told you that art’s creative nature can impact numerous individuals? 

That’s right; art is a powerful tool that can be used to uplift humankind. 

Ideas from art can be used to spread positive messages to brighten one’s day. These messages can put a smile on another face, making the community a happier place. In short, even the “trifling” thoughts/expressions can have the most profound impacts.

“But why assign purpose to artwork?” you may ask. Now, let me ask you; “Why do you make art?” That is, why do so if not to be of long-term value. Is it to copy a reference, the work of someone else? No, that’s not it. After all, references are only for practice. Overly utilizing another’s ideas will simultaneously develop a general skill set and none of your own spice, bringing more pain than gain when you realize that you can’t apply any of the ability..

Imagine slaving away on a piece of artwork for nothing. Imagine people strolling on and seeing none of you in the soulless piece. Imagine staring blankly at “your” own artwork. How would that feel? My guess: not great. 

That’s why we move to the next option: art is meant to use your ideas. Yes, this is the thought! It may be hard to implement, but this one works. 

Although I love creating, I too find myself in idea-less states. As a result, my art comes out lifeless and shallow—barren, even.

So, I decided to find a purpose for my art—a motive to express. For you, that may be conveying emotions, entertaining through optical illusion, or, in this case, fostering optimism. 

According to the East End Arts and Humanities Council, educating children about the importance of creative expression is of limitless worth to their well-being and functional skills. Therefore, the value of art comes from knowing the notion behind it, not just the polished product. 

And so, we can conclude that meaningless art presents no meaning in making it. 

Yes, you have grim days, and so do I. But stop and take a moment to think; we’re not the only ones. In fact, we’re far from getting the worst of it, as there will always be someone whose day is worse than ours.

So, instead of sulking about your own misfortunes, brainstorm ways to put the world out of its misery a little. 

But how so?

On my not-so-great days, I find that “trivial” gestures really do make more than a trivial impact. 

It uplifts my spirits to see the smallest smile coming my direction. When a moment’s support can go so far, imagine what one step further can do. Take that step and help your community by donating money, supplies, or time for a cause. 

And, you may even heal yourself.

As stated by the Mental Health Foundation, people feel better when they buttress others. This principle follows the psychological phenomenon of “feel-good, do-good,” which encompasses the concept that assisting others can better yourself. 

This is further supported by the quote, “Earn your success based on service to others, not at the expense of others.” – H. Jackson Brown Jr. Here, Brown explains that you only succeed by building others up, not tearing them down. 

You’ll feel better by basking in right doings, not drowning in guilt; Offer aid and you’ll be given the same.

Now, combine the two, and express yourself through your preferred art medium. In the process, build up someone. Use your art to support a cause, or offer it for enlightenment. Utilize your imagination and preach an idea to impact the world.

Believe it or not, you’ll make yourself happier in the process. 

For instance, Malaka Gharib says, “…when I create, I feel like it clears my head,” proving that art is an effective means of relief and relaxation. This contributes to space for the optimistic. 

Moreover, I too find that art brings me peace/happiness, depending on the context. After all, I appreciate looking at a bright mural or lively piece of artwork. 

Some examples of creative outlets include dance, music, painting; whatever inspires you. 

According to the Mayo Clinic, “You might use art to support your own well-being without even thinking about it.” Some examples include when you “doodle when you feel stressed or enjoy playing an instrument at the end of a long day.” 

Additional examples stated by Mayo Clinic include, “…creating visual art like drawings or paintings can provide enjoyment and distraction from things such as pain and anxiety. Listening to music might help to improve blood pressure and sleep quality, and can help keep you calm and relaxed during a medical procedure.” 

As concluded from these illustrations, art provides physical and mental relief. As true as it is, this idea does not come as a surprise. After all, only art breaks the world from the shackles of sorrow.