Consider the transformative power of art, how does art help illuminate our minds?
Art is a luminescent touchstone for introspection and transformation. Our everyday experiences are shaped consciously and subconsciously by our environment, especially color and sound. Art and music can transfix and transport us into a “flow state”, that feeling of being in the zone where we become one with our tasks and environment, and lose track of time. Making art and viewing art can help us be more present, and more focused. Art can create a physiological response where blood flow increases by as much as ten percent in the area of the the brain associated with pleasure, the same spike that occurs when we look at a loved one. Viewing and making art can also reduce cortisol levels for both those who identify as artists and those who don’t, so art can benefit everyone in measurable ways.
Why does art matter?
Art helps us seek pleasure and avoid pain. Art gives us permission to play, to be silly, to try themes and personas we might not otherwise show the world. Art has the ability to positively impact our body mind connection, and helps us have a better understanding of ourselves. And when we’re relaxed, we’re most able to create strong social bonds. Artists paint pictures and protest what’s amiss in our community, along with offering hope, dreams, and solutions. Artists start good trouble.
How does collecting local make a difference?
When the pandemic hit, I was locked down in Austin, Texas. Faced with isolation and blank walls, art was a bridge to sanity and serenity, and a link to my home, friends, and family. I printed some of my favorite photographs and other artwork, “padding my cell” so to speak, to create a cocoon of comfort. Such is the power of art. It’s a litmus test of where we are in our bodies, minds, and hearts, offering whatever we need, beyond what we think we want.
Back in San Francisco, art from my ATX home hangs on the walls. I had a deeper more enriching experience in Austin (and every other place I’ve traveled to and lived), because of the art and artists I communed with there. Friendships were created, and the connections continue to grow. Collecting local art expands horizons on the home front.
Why should others consider investing in their local creative community?
Local artists benefit community by teaching future generations, helping us cope and heal, and guiding individuals and businesses to think outside the box for greater satisfaction and profit. Local artists color our immediate world, breathing beauty, intrigue, and delight to our communities. Artists invite us to look more closely at what’s happening. When we collect local art, we’re taking a stand and expressing our passions, and voicing our values. And in declaring ourselves we have more opportunity to find common ground with others in our community.
Why/How is community important in the arts?
Art binds people and place and to each another. And art as a component of culture generates social capital that strengthens a community’s character. Art brings people into spaces big and small, casual and grand, indoor and outdoor, light and dark, quiet and loud, offering everything from passive viewing to engaged and active participation, allowing us to reflect, share, form connections, overcome obstacles, and transcend differences.
Is there anything you’d like to add?
I use art in partnership with guided imagery, meditation, vision boarding, journaling, and more to help others to create better habits, improve their life “scripts”, for pre and post operative pain management, to expand comfort zones, and map new paths, Art helps people tap into their emotions, hopes and dreams in ways that are beyond words, allowing them to support their healing journeys. Art inspires. Art heals. Art builds bridges and cultivates connection. Art creates community.