The ability to enjoy the arts is within everyone. One of the nice things about creating art is that the person who views your work cannot tell if you have a disability. Artwork is subjective and is judged on its merit; not on whether the artist can hold a pencil or brush. An artist strives to express emotion, and that may be influenced but not encumbered by a disability.
Another intrinsic quality of art is that it is inclusive; so, even if you don’t draw, paint, dance, or act, you can participate as audience-at a museum, a theater or gallery, or simply by pausing to admire nature’s artwork.
I often hear people bemoan their lack of talent, but that merely tells me they have not fully explored their interests. Making time to pursue activities you enjoy-following your bliss-is a sure way to discover hidden talents; and practice makes them perfect. Remember, you are in it for the joy!
In our modern age, the therapeutic value of art is widely recognized and exploited in many settings, with very good results. Art has the power to transport us away from the toils of daily life to higher levels of emotion and appreciation, which the artist has tried to convey by depicting a particular place or circumstance.
Some years ago, I browsed through what is probably a well-known tome in some circles-The Artist’ Way by Julia Cameron with Mark Bryan. I cannot attest to having mastered its lessons-far from it-but its central message seemed to say, at least to me, that you can live creatively, or you can settle for routine mediocrity. I challenge you to follow your bliss and to live the artist’s way.
Be well; be as healthy as you can be.
Clair Russell Hesselton, PhD
Chairman of the Board
