Volume 3I April, 2020

Painting Tips From the Aureolin Art Studio

I hope this newsletter finds you safe and well. This month, I’ve decided to talk about the mental health benefits of painting.  Having a sense of well-being is very important in our lives. We need more positive, uplifting words and activities that provide comfort, reduce stress and bring us joy.

Brain and Healthy Benefits of Painting

Strengthens memory — When taking a class and acquiring new skills and techniques, you need to recall what you learned. You have to remember what you know and put it into action when painting. Creative people have less memory loss as they age.

Builds problem-solving — Each time you start a new painting, you have to think about composition, design, values, colors and textures, and how you’re going to get your drawing down. You are problem-solving when you have to fix something or add something to make the painting stronger.

Develops emotional growth — You can express your feelings in your painting, as well as try new techniques and styles. It’s a great way for shy or introverted people to express themselves. Nourishes creative growth — Painting works both sides of the brain simultaneously, the analytical left brain and the creative right brain.

Promotes a positive attitude — When you finish a painting, you have a sense of happiness, pride, well-being and self-satisfaction. Showing your paintings to your friends and family helps strengthen connections.

Provides stress relief — We all have personal challenges. I see students with all kinds of worries in their lives. But once you start to paint, you can focus, let go and unwind. Painting reduces stress; people are happier and more relaxed when painting. It’s key to a healthy lifestyle and our mental health to keep reducing our stress levels. The brain is like a muscle. The more we use it, the stronger it gets. We grow new neural networks by learning new things, focusing and through repetition.

I tell my students that every time they paint, they exercise their brains. As we age, it’s even more import to keep our minds active and sharp. Painting is one activity you can do and still improve on into your 80s and 90s. Sky Burton, a former student of mine, is still painting today at the age of 96! When I asked him once why he paints he said, "It makes me feel good!" He’s right — painting makes us feel good. It’s why I love to teach; it’s so rewarding to see the positive health benefits painting promotes and how it transforms the lives of my students. Wherever you are in your journey of painting, know you’re improving your mental health and making this world a happier, healthier place — one painting at a time. Take good care of yourself! XO

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Please send to your friends and family who don’t paint. Maybe it will inspire them to start.

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