What is mindfulness?
Mindfulness is the practice of purposely bringing one's attention to the present moment, becoming an observer of one’s thoughts and emotions without judgment. Mindfulness has its roots in meditation, but it can be practiced through activities such as art-making.
What is mindful art?
Mindful art is using the act of creating art as a way to be in the present moment. With this type of art you are not striving for a specific outcome or to make something that looks "good". You are simply allowing yourself to make whatever marks you feel like in the moment without concern for the end result. It's about the process, not the outcome.
Why try mindful art?
Often times people who don’t consider themselves to be artistic feel that there is no point in creating art since they won’t be satisfied with the results. But studies have shown that you don't need to be "good" at art to benefit from the act of creating art. We are all creative beings with a need to express ourselves. Mindful art allows you to be creative and express yourself without the pressure of trying to achieve a specific end result. There is no "right" or "wrong" way to do mindful art. If you can hold a utensil and move your hand and arm around, then you can be a mindful artist!
Is mindful art the same as art therapy?
No. Mindful art is not art therapy and I am not an art therapist. Art therapy is a clinical method of treatment that has its roots in psychoanalysis. In art therapy, the therapist interprets the client’s work as a way to diagnose and address psychological problems. I do not analyze your artwork. Any interpretations of your art are left for you to make. Mindful art is about having your own experience and sharing that in the space held for you if you feel so inclined. If you would like to use art for deeper psychological work then you may want to seek out a licensed art therapist.
What are the potential benefits of mindful art?
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Increased sense of well-being
- Increased self-awareness
- Stimulates creativity and creative thinking
- Helps tame the inner critic
- Increases positive feelings
- Calming and relaxing
- Gentle way to regulate emotions
I can't even draw a stick figure. Can I make mindful art?
YES! You don't have to be a skilled artist to do these processes. They are simple and easy to do, making them accessible to everyone regardless of skill level.
Do I need to know a lot about art or art supplies to make mindful art or attend a class?
No! We explain the art process and how to use the materials at each class. Most of the materials we use are simple and don't require a lot of skill or knowledge to work with.
Do I have to show the art I make?
No. Sharing is always optional. You are welcome to share or simply hold space for the other participants.
Who is mindful art for?
My offerings are perfect for people interested in:
- Mindfulness and meditation
- Want to meditate but find it difficult to sit still and focus on breathing
- Creative self-care practices
- Personal discovery and growth
- Finding insight through art-making
- Incorporating more creativity and play into your life
- Cultivating well-being through simple art processes
- Utilizing simple art practices to inform and inspire creativity
What kind of art activities do you do in a mindful art class?
We do things such as collages, mandalas, automatic drawings, body scan drawings, creative writing, visual journaling and doodling, to name a few.
Where are you located?
We are based in Columbus, Ohio. Our public classes and workshops are held at Purple Dog Art Studio, located at 28 S. High St, New Albany, OH 43054. (Why Purple Dog Art Studio? Because Erin owns that, too!)
Do you travel to other locations to facilitate classes and workshops?
Yes, we will facilitate classes and workshops off site around Central Ohio. Depending on how far we have to travel, there may be an extra $25.00 travel fee.
