When have you used art to help you ?
MADDIE : I remember specifically using art during lockdown , whereby I found myself doodling and documenting on a daily basis in my art journal to manage my thoughts and emotions which accompanied the pandemic .
PIP : I wouldn ’ t say I am particularly artistic , but art is something I could still do when I was unwell . When I was in hospital , there was an art room which I used for hours creating different pieces of art .
KAREN : I use art to calm my anxiety and help calm my thoughts when I am worrying about a lot of things which is something I suffer with .
How were you drawn to using art as a form of therapy / healing ?
MADDIE : The act and concept of creating something which not only distracts one ’ s mind from any troubles whilst also having a physical outcome to show these emotions , demonstrates the beauty and importance of creative outlets to utilise as a form of therapy .
MADDIE : I ’ ve always enjoyed creating art pieces , regardless of whether it ’ s pleasure or for coursework . One thing they share is the relief and creativity embedded within both . I always find art makes me feel as though struggles in life are inevitable and unavoidable , however , it presents a positive , creative and healthy means of coping with them .
PIP : I was actually encouraged by staff at the hospital to use art to express how I was feeling or distract me from intense , overwhelming emotions .
How does art make you feel ?
PIP : Art makes me feel more relaxed , and , when I have a finished piece , it gives me a sense of accomplishment .
KAREN : You ’ re in your own world and focused on that only and nothing else .
KAREN : I have always been a creative person . But it is in recent years that I have found myself needing an outlet for myself and a distraction to what was going on in my head , so I got it down on paper .
MADDIE GODSELL-TAGG
What ’ s your favourite thing to create ?
MADDIE : I particularly enjoy drawing buildings . When I find myself overwhelmed , I go on a walk and take pictures of architecture that interests me and when I get home , I draw it , usually just in pencil . I find the simplicity of tonal drawings interesting alongside the whole process of getting fresh air and then applying my stresses creatively in the form of an outcome . It ’ s very therapeutic .
PIP : I enjoy using everyday items to create something fun which isn ’ t for the item ’ s desired purpose . Like puzzle pieces stuck together to make a pattern or shape and then painting over it to make something bright and exciting .
MADDIE GODSELL-TAGG
KAREN : I draw whatever is on my mind . I don ’ t decide what I am going to draw beforehand but I let the pencil flow and it ends up as something abstract that I often can find a resemblance in the image like a seashell .
Describe how you think art is important in helping people who are struggling .
MADDIE : It undoubtedly plays a predominant role in helping people manage their emotions since it serves as an outlet for any troubles , whilst doubling up as a healthy hobby to distract oneself from their own realities and any problems they are currently enduring .
PIP : I think art is important as it can be a way to express yourself when you feel like you have no other ways of doing so . It can also act as a distraction from intense emotions and allows you to get lost in what you are creating , rather than dwelling on those feelings .
KAREN : I think it helps people who are struggling as it helps you keep a focused mind . You are concentrating on that at the time , so any negative thoughts are silent at that moment . It is a creative outlet for your mind .
Art is a powerful tool . It can offer a glimpse of your innermost feelings , challenging the demons that often plague our thoughts . It also empowers us by boosting our confidence and alleviating anxieties .
Despite its difficulties , lockdown granted me the time to try something I would never usually do . Now , the more time I find I have to express myself creatively , the more important I deem it to be .
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