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Writer's pictureJade Forder

Art is Sustenance: Feeding Your Mind, Body, and Soul

Updated: Aug 29

Hello Lovlies!

In a world that often prioritises material possessions and the pursuit of financial success, it's important to remember as actor Ethan Hawke beautifully put it, "art is not a luxury; art is sustenance." It goes beyond mere decoration, playing a vital role in improving our mental health, providing moments of stillness, inspiring personal growth, and lifting our spirits. How can art enrich our lives in profound ways?


Art and Mental Health: We all need a little mental TLC. Well, art acts as a soothing balm for our minds. It offers solace, comfort, and even therapeutic benefits. Whether you're creating art yourself or simply appreciating the works of others, art provides a safe space for self-expression. It helps us process our emotions, reducing anxiety, easing depression, and contributing to our overall well-being. It's like a wellness retreat for your brain!


I have written a blog about this before, how art has made a huge difference to my mental health. I know it has helped lots of you too. My art journaling classes are a great way to start, or my free class Things That Make Me Happy.

Jade Forder from Creative Abyss painting in her garden. She is sitting at her outdoor table with a table easel, a pot she has painted, wearing earrings she made and her Kendra tshirt from Redbubble.
Me painting in my garden

Art and Stillness: Amidst the hustle and bustle of our busy lives, finding moments of stillness can feel like a luxury. Art is here to help. When you take the time to admire a piece of art, something magical happens. Time seems to slow down, and you're transported to a place of contemplation. You get to soak in the intricate details, vibrant colours, and captivating textures. It's like hitting the pause button on life, allowing you to cultivate mindfulness, find inner peace, and catch your breath.



"Serene" artwork from Creative Abyss hanging on the wall in a timber frame. In front is a plush cream lounge with a red printed cushion and a black and white printed blanket. Serene is a pink and cream painting of a woman with her eyes closed and flowers in her hair.
"Serene" hung insitu


Art and Personal Inspiration: We all need a little inspiration to keep us going. Art has the incredible power to inspire and motivate us to become the best versions of ourselves. Art carries messages that resonate with our values, challenges our perspectives, and stirs deep emotions within us. Whether it's a painting, a sculpture, or a poem, art ignites our imagination and fuels our own creative endeavours. It encourages us to reflect on life's complexities, embrace empathy, and strive for personal growth. So, let art be your personal cheerleader, nudging you toward positive change.


Goddess Artemis, made with acrylics and collage. She has a huge full moon behind her. She is looking hopefully up to the sky and carries a quiver with arrows. She has blue hair
Goddess Artemis. Honour your path, who you have become and who you are meant to be. You are exactly where you are meant to be. Everything that has happened to you, whether shitty or not, has made you who you are today, and no one can take that away from you. You are bloody amazing!

Art as an Uplifting Force: Sometimes we just need a little pick-me-up. It's not just about prettying up a room; it's about lifting your mood and infusing your everyday life with joy and beauty. A vibrant painting, a soothing melody, or a captivating photograph can work wonders for your spirits. Art transcends the mundane, reminding us of the immense creativity and beauty that exists in the world. It's like a ray of sunshine on a gloomy day, helping us find solace and hope, even in the darkest of times.


"11 Layers Of Love" by Jade Forder at Creative Abyss hanging insitu. In front is a padded bright yellow chair with a dusty rose cushion. On the floor is a pink and blue round cushion. There is a round wood and metal table with a yellow vase and leaves.
"11 Layers Of Love" hanging insitu

Art is not just a luxurious indulgence—it's sustenance for our minds, bodies, and souls. It nourishes our mental health, providing a therapeutic outlet for self-expression. It invites us to find moments of stillness in this chaotic world, offering a chance to reflect, be mindful, and find our centre. Art inspires us to grow, change, and become better versions of ourselves. It can be your ray of sunshine.


The aim of my art is not just to have something pretty on your wall, it is all of this, textural, multi detailed, offers solace and strength, brightens your day, gives you something to connect with.


Use art for growth and change.

Use art to be still and pay attention.

Use art to accept and move forward.


I would love to know your experience with art and how you perceive it. Let me know!


x

Jade










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