Art as a Pathway to Healing: Discover the Meditation Within

 Judy Bruce

Meditation has long been touted for its mental health benefits, a sentiment echoed by several studies. According to the Mayo Clinic, it offers emotional balance and can significantly enhance overall well-being. The process fosters a sense of calm and provides an effective tool for stress management by centering focus on tranquil thoughts.

The late Louise Bourgeois, a renowned French-American artist, portrayed art as a form of mental stability. Bourgeois remarked, “Art is a guarantee to sanity. Making art was a tool for coping with overwhelming emotion.” Her early experiences with sculpting bread crumbs at the dinner table became a means to confront her challenging family dynamics. For her, art transcended mere escape; it was a vital part of maintaining her sanity.

As noted by Catherine McNally in her work ILLUMINATION, art serves as an avenue to tap into one’s creativity. It combines freedom of expression with the precision required in technique and style. During pottery classes, many students found joy in the tactile experience of working with clay, emphasizing its meditative qualities.

The therapeutic benefits of art extend to various mental health challenges, including depression and trauma. Observations during junior high art classes highlighted the positive impact of art on young people. A recent study involving cancer patients indicated that art therapy, when paired with traditional medical treatments, alleviated symptoms like pain and anxiety, and even improved life expectancy.

Artists associated with the Sonoran Arts League have shared similar insights. Marti Niles, who leads the League Veterans program, noted that art has been a calming influence in her life since childhood. She observes firsthand the joy it brings to veterans involved in their programs. Deb Court highlighted how creativity can create a sense of calm, while Alyson Miller expressed that art provides an escape. Barbara Grey added that all worries tend to vanish when she is engaged in the creative process.

Research suggests that both meditation and art can help individuals manage symptoms related to anxiety, asthma, and other conditions. The Sonoran Arts League invites participants to explore their own forms of meditation through creative projects. Engaging in art not only promotes well-being but also cultivates community participation. Embracing this medium can lead to transformative experiences.