INQUIRY

This is a question that I have spent a lot of time pondering as a graphic design major with a minor in studio arts. It seems so pointless when comparing it to those pursuing counseling, medicine, or teaching. While society needs these occupations, artists and designers are important as well.

CAPTURING THE MOMENT

Artist capture vital moments of history and expose people to new cultures and experiences. Art and creativity have been proven to help people physically and mentally.

THE EXPERT'S ADVICE

Global CEO Paul Marobella outlines this in his article entitled, The Importance of Creativity: The Positive Effect on Your Brain and Health. He shares how art has a list of benefits including enhancing the function of the brain, reducing stress, and strengthening the immune system.

THE BENEFITS

It helps with collaboration, cultural engagement, empathy, and observation and awareness of the world around you. It also allows the individual to reflect, be present, and be more observant, aware of the world around them, try new things, and process information. I have personally experienced these benefits.

REFLECTION

Art a tool that I use to process and reflect on my life. Art is important because artists are able to share a part of themselves with the viewer. This creates a connection based on common experience, or learning about new experiences or cultures through creative means. Art gives exposure to cultures and experiences that one would otherwise not be exposed to.

GETTING EVERY DETAIL

Have you ever sat down and tried to draw a loved one by memory? All of a sudden, you don’t remember them as well as you thought you did. An artist is trained to observe small details such as the lines of one’s fingers or the shape of one’s mouth. Attention to detail doesn’t have to be exclusive to detectives and artists who create realistic drawings.

BE INSPIRED

Inspiration is all around you, so keeping an eye out for a moment of sunshine, the words on a sign, or a sweet interaction can stand out in a monotonous day, and inspire a great work of art!

LEARN MORE

Check out Paul Maroballa’s article, The Importance of Creativity: The Positive Effect on Your Brain and Health. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/importance-creativity-positive-effect-your-brain-health-marobella/

Why does creativity matter?