Art has long been recognised as a therapeutic and nourishing activity for the soul. From painting and drawing to sculpture and performance, art has the power to lift our spirits and bring us joy, even in the darkest of times. But art isn't just something to be enjoyed on a personal level – it can also have a profound impact on the environment in which it is displayed. In this article, we'll delve deeper into the therapeutic benefits of art and the ways in which displaying art in your environment can enhance your daily life, drawing on the insights and research of experts in the field.
The Therapeutic Benefits of Art: According to art therapist and author Cathy Malchiodi, art has the ability to "help us tap into and express our thoughts and feelings, process and make sense of experiences, and find meaning and purpose in our lives." In other words, art can be a powerful tool for self-expression, self-discovery, and personal growth.
One of the key benefits of art therapy is its ability to provide a safe and supportive space for individuals to process and express their emotions. According to art therapist Shaun McNiff, "art therapy is concerned with the inner world of feelings and experiences, which are often difficult to express in words." By giving people a way to express themselves creatively, art therapy can help individuals to better understand and cope with their emotions.
Art therapy can also be beneficial for individuals struggling with mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. Studies have shown that engaging in art-making can reduce stress and anxiety, as well as improve overall well-being. Additionally, viewing art has been shown to reduce blood pressure and heart rate, as well as increase feelings of happiness and contentment.
The Benefits of Displaying Art in Your Environment: In addition to the therapeutic benefits of art on a personal level, displaying art in your environment can also have a positive impact on your daily life. According to interior designer and author Mary Ann Pickett, art "has the power to transform a space and make it feel more alive, vibrant, and welcoming." By adding art to your home or workspace, you can enhance the aesthetic of the space and create a more inviting and inspiring atmosphere.
Displaying art in your environment can also be a way to showcase your personal style and interests. As Pickett notes, "art is a way to express your personality and create a space that feels like home." By selecting art that reflects your passions and tastes, you can make your space feel more reflective of who you are as an individual.
Furthermore, art can serve as a source of inspiration and creativity, encouraging us to think outside the box and approach problems with a fresh perspective. According to art therapist and author Cathy Malchiodi, "art-making can help us access our own inner wisdom and tap into a greater source of creativity and innovation." By surrounding ourselves with art, we can open ourselves up to new ideas and possibilities.
Conclusion: Art has the power to bring joy and inspiration into our lives, and the therapeutic benefits of art can have a profound impact on our mental health and well-being. By incorporating art into our daily lives and displaying it in our environments, we can create a more inviting, inspiring, and personal space that reflects our individuality and style. So why not invest in a piece of art today and start reaping the many benefits that it has to offer?
Further reading: Here are a few books on the subject of the therapeutic benefits of art that we would recommend for further reading to delve deep:
"Art as Medicine: Creating a Therapy of the Imagination" by Shaun McNiff In this book, art therapist Shaun McNiff explores the ways in which art can be used
