Express Yourself: Take an Art Class
Art is an excellent way to express yourself, even if you don’t consider yourself an “artist.” Expressing yourself through art can be a very therapeutic, and it’s a chance to meet and talk with others who have similar interests.
Whether you studied art in the past and want to get back into it, or are a newbie who’s always wanted to try it, expressing yourself by taking an art class can be a healthy, energizing activity.
Here are some benefits of expressing yourself through an art class.
1. Broaden Your Horizons
Even if you’ve been doing art for some time, getting out and mingling with other artists broadens your horizons. Not only do you get to meet new people who share an interest in art; but you also get to hear other perspectives. There will be various points of view and ideas about technique that may “stretch” you a bit. And of course, you can offer your perspective to the others in the class as well.
2. Explore a New Medium
Maybe you’ve been doing art for some time, but you haven’t explored a particular medium. Now’s your chance! Express yourself in a new way – try oil painting if you’ve always worked with acrylic; try sculpting if you’ve previously done only drawing or painting. Choose a medium that fits your living situation – something you can do at home – so you can take what you’ve learned and work on it at home.
3. Explore Your Talent
You may surprise yourself with your artistic abilities, especially if the art class is well run by an accomplished artist who knows how to teach. It may just be the self-confidence boost you needed.
Moreover, after you find your artistic ability, you’re more likely to feel confident in pursuing your art on your own, and it can become a form of self-expression for years to come.
4. Healing Effects
It’s no coincidence that therapists use art to bring about the management of various mental, psychological, emotional, and even physical challenges. Art therapy is an established, well-documented method in these contexts, and it could have a very similar effect on you, too. Who knows – you might aspire to get a degree in art, and/or take what you’ve learned and teach others.
5. People May Get an Insight into You
Many art classes culminate in a show. Students display their art and invite guests to come and view their work. This could be the chance for other people to see a part of you that you couldn’t express in words. It can be very satisfying to have other people gain a new level of understanding about who you are.
Hopefully, you can find an art class in your area that will offer these benefits and more.