Abstract art is a way to connect to our intuition and feelings. For each piece John Dowling creates, he focuses on how he wants the painting to make us feel. Making art is part of what it means to be human. We have been doing it since prehistoric times for mysterious, sacred, and socially complex reasons. John Dowling is certain that making art improves our mental well-being. It also enhances our physical health in many ways. We don’t even have to be good at it to reap the rewards.
Here are just five of the ways making art can be good for us:
1. Art can help our recovery if we are unwell. It can also help us to stay healthier and happier for longer. Making art contributes to leading an expressive, fulfilling, and creative life.
2. Creativity helps to stimulate our minds and keep our brains active. It can help to boost our concentration, reminisce about our past and retain our memories.
3. Making art relieves stress and anxiety. It provides new sensory experiences and focuses our attention away from our daily worries.
4. Making art can boost our self-esteem and sense of accomplishment. It allows us to explore new things in a safe space. It teaches us that it is okay to make mistakes along the way.
5. Art brings us together. When being creative with others we feel less isolated and more connected as a community. Art helps us to communicate things that are sometimes too difficult to put into words.
So, take out your brushes and canvas, and get creative! You don’t have to be a professional artist to enjoy the many benefits of making art.
