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Art. A wonderful medium for expressing emotions and thoughts too profound and intense to be held within. Ever look at (or read) a work of art and think, “This artist understands me, I’m not alone in what I feel.”?
What are some of your favorite artists? Works of art that you can deeply relate to? One artist I feel understands me in ways I can’t describe in Chiara Bautista. When I first saw one of her illustrations I immediately felt a strong sense of nostalgia, followed by a spiritual experience. I’d love to hear other people’s experiences with the general category of “art.” Are you an artist yourself?
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I know exactly what you’re talking about Amily. There is something so soothing for me when I paint with each brush stroke. I acctually used to do art therapy and now I just take some classes. It’s really cool how much relief art can give you, like a really healthy outlet.
I really like abstract art because I feel like there is so much emotion in it. But I love artists like Keith Hering (which is my icon picture) and some different kinds of art. I love love love Banksy, the street artist. Definitely check him out!
Another form of art that I admire is the photography done for Humans of NY. The way he takes pictures of strangers and has their personal experiences along with it is such a reminder that we are all human.
I’ll definitely have to check out Banksy, and I’ve seen Humans of New York too, it’s really great and I love reading their stories. Incase you didn’t know, they have a Humans of Hartford too.
I love Humans of New York. You know we pass by so many strangers every day and pay no mind to it. It is such a great reminder that, like Sam said, we are all human, we all have stories to tell. I love looking at it when I’m caught up in my own stuff because it is also a great reminder for myself to know that there are so many people out there in the world, that I can’t let this one person take up so much space in my head
I think relaxation music is good too especially to go to sleep. There is art every where should try looking into different kinds of arts.
Amily,
Art is a powerful medium that can manifest itself in a variety of forms. Just like Jamie stated, I find myself leaning more towards music as a means of art expression. Nevertheless, I also possess the creativity and necessity to doodle and draw out my emotions while being forced to sit still throughout meetings or long groups. During what times do you find that you are personally using any forms of art to express yourself?
For me the difference between just drawing, painting, playing a instrument, and taking a picture or whatever and art is when the originator is trying to connect with themselves, others, or “the world” with it. Honest art does make me feel like I’m not alone, but in a different way than usual. When I’m with someone who I really enjoy spending time with, I feel like I’m not alone because we see the world similarly. With art, I feel like I’m not alone in my head. It’s like someone brought their world into me and combined it with mine, and I’m seeing it with two sets of minds and eyes. It really helps me stay connected when I’m having a rough time, and makes me appreciate my life more when I’m in a good space. But that’s the really good stuff, not all art. I don’t follow art like you would see at the Wadsworth that much because it’s not the same on the computer screen, and I cant afford the museum pass or books. But I have really gotten into black and white street photography from the 50s, the Criterion collection of movies, and I love Jazz, Hip Hop, and Blues.
Art is awesome, I paint and write poems as a hobby.
Going forward it would be great if everyone share some of their work in the ‘Expressions‘ section of the Media Room: https://turningpointct.org/media/expressions/. I have seen some really kool pieces so far!
Kevin,
I will definitely be checking out that expressions section of the media room. Also, is there any type of poem structure that you prefer over any other? I personally enjoy free writing and simply letting what comes to me naturally flow onto the paper, although I am a fan of one-line repetitions.
Same here Luz. I’m just smiling at this, because my style is so similar.
I usually write when I am depressed or angry so its pretty easy getting things out.
In the past I’ve written stuff I sort of planned out, but I usually stick to the free flow.
Kevin,
I like that we are on the same page for our writing styles. I know that at least for me whenever I can connect with anyone about anything it makes me feel better just knowing that I am not alone in something. Do you find ease or comfort in doodling? I am the type of person who cannot sit still in meetings or any types or groups and I always find myself fidgeting, doodling or creating some type of artsy ANYTHING with whatever I have at my disposal. Is anyone else like that?
OMG! Yes Luz, I used to do that a lot in high school, specifically during class. I may have grown out of the habit though, but if I have a pencil/pen in my hand and a clear surface before me, (paper etc) I usually find myself unconsciously drawing or writing something.
Btw, I did some art recently and Michael submitted some as well, they are displayed in the media room… please share your thoughts … you can view them here Media Room: https://turningpointct.org/category/media/expressions/.
I would love to read some of your poems as well Luz.