Creating art is not only a wonderful way to pass the time, it is also somewhat therapeutic. Working on a piece of art allows your mind to wander and untangle, and can be a way to allow your busy mind to relax. While enabling mindfulness, we are also improving skills, such as observation and fine motor skills.
Art has been one of my main focus’s during this lockdown period. I resolved to become better at my drawing and painting during this time, so I took up the opportunities of some of the free lessons out there at the moment. Improving my skills, and opening up my mind for learning has also given me some more purpose in my day. I have a goal in mind, and working towards that gives me a greater sense of purpose, and then achievement and satisfaction as I complete lessons and watch myself (slowly) improve. Needless to say, there is also dissatisfaction and disappointment as I learn to paint and draw better. Artists are known to be their own harshest critics, which certainly rings true in many a moment. However, this forces me to deal with how ugly I think the work is, or how hopeless I am at art. It forces me to decide how to move on from that moment. Do I : A. Wallow in self pity and give up. (a surprisingly tempting option) or B. Remind myself of my goals, try to have a growth mindset, pick up the pen and try again (and again, and again).
This process as I work on my art is like a smaller version of the decisions that face us in all kinds of situations, daily. Even in this time of lockdown, those two options present itself over and over again (even in deciding when to get up and whether to get dressed). I encourage you to consider how you are encountering these two options, and what your responses are.
Back to the main topic – ART. Art is an amazing avenue for all sorts of learning and self realisations, so if you would like to give it a go (no matter your ability), here are some links you may be interested in. Please share how art is helping you!
Disney how to draw series (FREE)
How to paint Van Gogh’s ‘Starry Night’
Illustrator Rob Biddulph gives free online lessons
Tate has a kids site with games, activities and info on artists. A great resource for artsy kids.
Not a kid? Check out the Tate website for tutorials and art inspiration
Free photography lessons for teens
The Arty Teacher Free downloads
Don’t forget the power of YouTube tutorials – have a search and you’ll find so many free tutorials!
For more ideas, see my board; Art on Pinterest.
Evergrowing Education 