In a fast-paced world filled with distractions, responsibilities, and constant noise, taking time to create art can be one of the most rewarding and essential acts of self-care. Art isn’t just about producing something beautiful—it’s about expression, emotional release, and even healing. Whether you consider yourself an artist or not, the act of creating something with your hands has the power to ground you, bring clarity, and invite joy into your life.
The Power of Creativity in Everyday Life
Creativity isn’t reserved for professional artists or those with a talent for drawing or painting. It is an innate part of being human. When we engage in a creative process, we tap into a part of ourselves that is deeply personal yet universally understood. Art allows us to slow down, to focus, and to explore emotions that may be difficult to articulate through words alone.
Making art is also a way to reconnect with a sense of play—something many of us leave behind in childhood. There are no rules, no expectations, and no one to impress. The simple act of moving paint across paper, sculpting with clay, or sketching in a notebook can be deeply meditative. In a time when stress and anxiety are at an all-time high, making space for creativity is more important than ever.
Art as a Therapeutic Practice
Many people turn to art as a form of therapy, whether they realize it or not. Studies have shown that engaging in artistic activities can reduce stress, lower anxiety, and even help with processing trauma. The reason is simple: art provides an outlet for emotions that may be difficult to express in everyday conversation.
When we create, we allow our inner world to take shape outside of ourselves. Whether it’s through color, texture, or movement, art gives us a way to externalize what’s happening within. The act of making something tangible can be incredibly cathartic, helping us to release pent-up emotions and gain insight into our own thoughts and feelings.
Two Simple Painting Projects to Get Started
If you’ve ever wanted to explore painting but felt intimidated by the idea of making “good” art, these two simple projects are a great way to begin. They require minimal supplies, encourage experimentation, and most importantly, emphasize the process rather than the final product.
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Scrape Painting – A Therapeutic Abstract Art Technique
Scrape painting is an incredibly freeing way to create abstract art. Instead of focusing on details, you simply place paint onto paper and drag it across the surface, allowing the colors to mix and blend in unexpected ways.
How It Works:
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Apply blobs of acrylic paint onto a piece of thick paper or a canvas.
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Use a scraper (an old gift card works great, or a shower squeegee) to drag the paint across the page.
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Experiment with different pressures and directions.
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Let it dry and enjoy the unexpected beauty of the results.
This technique is particularly therapeutic because it allows you to express feelings without overthinking. You can put your emotions onto the page and then quite literally scrape them away, creating something new in the process.
Abstract Glue Art – Adding Texture and Dimension
This project introduces a fun way to add texture to your artwork using simple materials like craft glue and paint. It creates a raised, tactile design that feels high-end and modern.
How It Works:
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Either mix paint into your glue or glue into your paint bottle, then use glue to create designs—swirls, lines, or abstract shapes—on watercolor paper.
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Let the glue dry completely.
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Paint over the dried glue with watercolors, using a single tone for a minimalist look or multiple colors for more contrast.
Why You Should Make Time for Art
At its core, making art isn’t about the final product—it’s about the process. It’s about carving out time for yourself, engaging with your emotions, and giving yourself permission to explore without judgment. Whether you are painting, sculpting, collaging, or even doodling in a notebook, creative expression has the power to shift your mindset, reduce stress, and bring a sense of accomplishment.
So, if you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, uninspired, or just in need of a break, pick up some paint, a brush, and a piece of paper. Let yourself play. You might be surprised by what you discover—not just on the page, but within yourself.
Have you tried incorporating art into your routine? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let’s keep the conversation going!