Art from the Heart

“Art washes from the soul the dust of everyday life.” ~ Pablo Picasso

I always wished I could collect those crayons that families would leave behind in restaurants and give them to children and adults who had never had the opportunity to play with color. The smiles it would bring to their faces and the light that would shine in their hearts …

My first stop to make this wish a reality is Sierra Leone, a country in West of Africa where my dear friend whom I respect and love has been empowering young men and women to become future leaders in their country.
I would like to take with me color pencils, watercolor, crayon and chalk for a fresh experience and encounter with art and philosophy.

IN MY EXPERIENCE …
When I teach art I find art and wisdom overlap
Things are not what they appear, our perception deceives us
Art as expression is very powerful
Art is meditative
Art is play
If we allow there is flow, connection and expansion 
If we do not judge there is freedom to express 
If we don’t claim there is no attachment 
If we are not attached we can let go of outcome 
Art is used as therapy, watching your feelings and being with your feelings
Art arouses imagination and curiosity
Art can bring beauty
Art can be a powerful voice

We live in a creative age. Imagination knows no limits, art is a great place to experiment.

INSPIRATION:
Art making has the ability to move people along their journey of grief and loss into a more balanced place of healing and hope. In the face of tragedy, the creative process can help re-calibrate a mourner’s life.”
~ The Chandler Gallery at Maud Morgan Arts

Art is unquestionably one of the purest and highest elements in human happiness. It trains the mind through the eye, and the eye through the mind. As the sun colors flowers, so does art color life.”
~John Lubbock (1834-1913), “The Pleasures of Life”

The arts are a critical component of healthcare. Expressive art is a tool to explore, develop and practice creativity as a means to wellness.”
~ Wellarts Association

The medical profession has come a long way in recognizing the healing benefits of art. My hope is that someday the arts will be considered as significant in everyone’s lives as breathing fresh air, eating clean foods, and performing physical exercise.”
~ Renée Phillips