The many benefits of art!
Repeat after me: “I am creative…I am creative…I am creative…”
When we think of art or creativity, most of us instantly self-select out as “not creative”—NOT true. All of us are artists. We just have to give ourselves permission to be creative and shut out that voice that told us years ago that we just don’t have what it takes to be creative or an artist. Sound familiar? We are here to challenge you. Get yourself a Mandala Coloring Book by Creative Haven, www.doverpublications.com. An easy first step.
Through teaching adults and engaging employees during creative team-building experiences, we have seen art:
- reduce stress
- enhance cognitive abilities and memory—even for people with serious brain conditions
- boost self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment
- enhance problem solving skills
- increase interest, sustained attention, and pleasure
…and, these benefits are medically proven—the Harvard Medical School reports that the serotonin produced during creative exploration supercharges learning and connects us to others. Art shifts one’s relationship to the problem, enabling one to approach it from a fresh, backdoor perspective.
Some real life examples…
Enhancing problem solving skills:
The Business Services leadership team at Agilent met to plan new innovation for their company while paying tribute to their past. There is nothing more gratifying than to see 40 to 50-year-old men and women being transported back to being a creative kid again. Notice Einstein on top of the canvas.
Enhancing cognitive abilities and memory:
We had the pleasure of working with various patients at Craig Hospital who had sustained brain injuries. The severity of injuries ranged from serious to mild; however, everyone exhibited incredible talent and creativity!
Boosting self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment:
Redefining Able Retreat in the Colorado Mountains. The annual camp helps participants develop new skills and interests, push their boundaries, and realize their potential. The art project was a powerful way to begin the opening night of the three-day event because it got participants out of their comfort zones, honed into their creative spirits, and at the end of the night, each woman was amazed with her creation.
Words from our creative clients:
“Thank you Renata and Birgit for a fun art experience expressing our services vision for the company on canvas. I received wonderful feedback from the team and the resulting art work will be a long term reminder of what we envision as a team.”
-Michael L., GM New Business Ventures, Agilent T.
“Thank you to The Art Connection for bringing such a great activity to our retreat.”
– Tricia Downing, Redefining Able.
About the Author: Birgit & Renata
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