A life without art is not living but merely existing.
To deny the power of art in life is to deny yourself the powers of creation. And art is power. To create something wholly you is an awe-inspiring and breathtaking feat of might. That power can change the world.
Art is social commentary and protests of injustice. Art opens minds to new possibilities and different perspectives.
That power is all at once terrifying and beautiful. We must take responsibility for such power and cultivate it to bring the change we desperately wish for.
Have you ever felt art?
That feeling of your soul swooning over the written word, a painting, or a piece of music? The butterflies in your stomach or the heart-wrenching pain that fills your entire being as your senses take in a piece of art.
These feelings are what make art art. The feelings behind the creation and reception of art are what give meaning and depth to that art. Art is communication, sharing parts of yourself that you could not express any other way.
Art is connection and belonging, realizing that you are not alone in your emotions and your struggles. Art is sustenance for your soul, sustaining your spirit as you continue through life.
Science is art. The patterns and colors found throughout biological life is artistry. Humans evolved to seek out art in their surroundings, recognizing certain patterns and forms were signs of safety.
When school boards take away art classes in favor of science and math, they do not see that art is math and science. Art is the Mona Lisa, but it is also Da Vinci’s work on anatomy, astronomy, and engineering.
To strip science of art is to fundamentally misunderstand the world in which you live. It is trying to cut out the stitching of a tapestry while believing that the whole thing will not unravel.
There is freedom in art.
Dictators and tyrants understand that granting the power of creativity to their people will lead to their defeat. That is why oppressive rulers seek to control, censor, and ban all forms of art.
Creative expression is a threat to tyranny. Art is liberating, strengthening minds and hearts to rise up against the forces that would hold them in bondage. Art is a symbol for change. It is a new dawn, bright with hope after a long-fought war with despair.
The beauty of art brings joy and peace. It has been shown through multiple studies that human beings thrive in aesthetically pleasing atmospheres.
Mood and mental health is overall improved when surrounded by art. Physical ailments and injuries recover more quickly when the brain is exposed to art often. Art is healing, a therapy that brings about true wellness.
Art is essential to life. It is interwoven throughout many different aspects of the world. Art brings out the best in humanity and it lifts our potential.
Embrace art in all its forms and share it with others. Teach children to express their creativity. Seek out art each and every day. Create a better world and a beautiful life with the power of art.
Art is the lifeblood of our society and the make-up of our personal human experience. So, go out in the world and use those creative powers.
-Guest Article by Chelsea Thatcher
Chelsea is a neurospicy blogger and creative writer who is good at juggling tasks and finding balance in a hectic world. She uses writing to express herself and share her own journey through life, mental health, and family!
Go check out her blog and other writings at https://www.chelseathatcher.com/