Jo's thoughts on Transformative Art
1) Art wakes us up: To make art we must fully enter the present moment by becoming keenly aware through our senses. As we become present we can experience a state of ‘flow’ - the antidote to being 'stuck'.
2) Art welcomes us: It asks us to value ourselves and our work, not for being something special but for simply being wholeheartedly us. In so doing, it requires us to find a way to deal with our inner critic. Art embraces mistakes and imperfection.
3) Art helps us to let go: The artistic process requires us to surrender. We learn that all creative acts are accompanied by anxiety; this is normal and to be welcomed. The healing and the art are found in managing this anxiety; in trusting the process. *
4) Art makes us whole: The combination of head, hand, heart and hara involved in creative play is integrative and thus healing. It is also joyful and full of beauty - which is good for us at any age.
5) Art moves us: Art creates a shift in the way we view ourselves and the issues that affect our lives. It reveals the inner world and engages the outer world. Art gives us a voice and makes us visible.
Above all, art connects us to our core, our life-sustaining energy. This present moment.
* This way of looking at anxiety I owe to a wonderful book: 'Fearless Creating', by Eric Maisel.
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