Exploring Emotions and Self-Discovery Through Artistic Drawing: Hobbinomics
Rewritten Article:
Grab your paintbrushes, folks! Art enthusiasts across Russia are jumping on the painting bandwagon, with 19% of the population planning to take up this cherished hobby by 2025. Learning to express yourself artistically isn't just a way to pass time, it also offers a slew of psychological benefits that make it a powerful tool for self-improvement and emotional well-being.
Licensed psychologist Yuri Muradyan explains, "Painting is more than just a hobby—it's a means of self-discovery and a powerful way to harmonize one's inner world. In this era of constant change, stress, and information overload, spending just 45 minutes a day painting can help decrease cortisol levels by a quarter."
Research by neurobiologists has shown that painting strengthens connections between neurons in the brain, activating areas responsible for emotions, imagination, and sensory perception. This leads to a more balanced psyche overall.
A study published on Frontiers, focusing on various forms of art and mental health, found that any artistic interest, be it active or passive, activates specific neural pathways responsible for healthy emotional processing while preserving self-care.
According to Giridja Kaimal, professor of the art therapy department at Drexel University, creativity is a fundamental human need rooted in our very origins. Kaimal believes that imagination—the ability to create images—has played a crucial role in human development, helping us cope with life's uncertainties.
"Everyday tasks create space for creativity and stimulate the release of dopamine, the happy hormone, when we cook a new dish, find a new route to work, or dance to music," Kaimal notes.
Neglecting creative pursuits, however, can lead to feelings of anxiety and distress, warns Kaimal. By engaging in creative activities, we connect with our inner child—the part of us that wants to play, draw, and make up stories. Kaimal suggests not neglecting these activities as adults, reminding us that self-expression is as essential for our well-being as healthy food, exercise, and rest.
Alice, a 23-year-old student at an art institute, turned to painting to find a unique perspective on the world. "An artist can see an ocean in a puddle on the asphalt, a tropical forest labyrinth in the grass, and unique beauty in faces," she says, going on to credit painting for helping her develop patience. She notes that creating art takes time and determination, but the rewards are well worth the effort.
Business events producer Olga Lisitsyna attended art school as a child and believes that her understanding of composition and color gives her a competitive edge when creating visuals for her work. Olga shares the unique ability to network with creative individuals, stating, "Having an interest in art often connects with people who think outside the box—useful in creative and business fields alike." This sets up an interesting backdrop for conversation and expressed opinions.
Dmitry Goryleshev, artistic director and co-founder of "Simple School" (an online and offline art school), believes that art education is valuable at any age, as it helps people develop attention and abstract thinking. "We see things differently when we draw—more focused and discerning," he explains.
According to Goryleshev, the students at Simple School span a wide range of ages. Some are seeking a new hobby, while others are striving for professional or personal growth. Regardless of their goals, being part of an art community brings like-minded individuals together.
Twenty-seven-year-old Antonina began painting in March 2020, inspired by the pandemic lockdowns. She recalls that painting has become an integral part of her being, allowing her to express herself more freely. Eventually, she decided to enroll in an illustration course and is currently balancing her studies with her work in the social sector.
Olga Ptashnik, a 35-year-old illustrator, realized she wanted to monetize her art during her master's degree. She parlayed her passion into a successful career, penning and illustrating five children's books. Along with creative challenges, Ptashnik faces the difficulties that often accompany the launch of a creative business, such as balancing work with the rest of her life.
Experts like Muradyan remind us that high expectations and fear of failure are common among creative individuals. However, enjoying the process is crucial for success. Finding one's unique style is a long and often nerve-wracking journey, but with patience and practice, anyone can become an artist.
Whether you're inclined towards digital art or traditional methods, such as painting with oils and watercolors, finding your preferred style is all about experimentation and personal preference. Both Dmitry Goryleshev and Polina Nesterova agree that the best approach is to explore both mediums and find what resonates most with you.
Painting can be an expensive hobby, but careful budgeting and smart investment can help minimize costs. For instance, Olga Lisitsyna advises starting with free video tutorials and basic materials like pencils and sketchbooks. If you're ready to deepen your knowledge, enrolling in art courses can take your skills to new heights. The cost depends heavily on the instructor and course length, but remember—the most important thing is to enjoy the journey.
When it comes to investing in your passion for painting, there's no right or wrong answer—only what feels right for you. So go ahead, grab a paintbrush, and embark on the adventure of a lifetime. You never know where your creativity will take you. Happiness is only a stroke away!
P.S. Don't compare your art to that of others. Everyone's creative journey is unique, and each step is an opportunity to develop your style. Focus on improving your visual perception, analyze the techniques of your favorite artists, and immerse yourself in your passion. And remember: success lies in enjoying the process rather than striving for perfection. Happy painting! 😊🎨🖌️
- In addition to being a popular pastime, painting is also a means for self-discovery and emotional balance, as noted by licensed psychologist Yuri Muradyan.
- Engaging in creative activities, such as painting, cooking, or finding a new route to work, can activate neural pathways responsible for healthy emotional processing and promote self-care.
- Creativity is a fundamental human need and plays a crucial role in human development, according to Giridja Kaimal, professor of the art therapy department at Drexel University.
- Alice, a young art student, believes that painting has helped her develop patience and provided a unique perspective on the world.
- Business events producer Olga Lisitsyna believes that having an interest in art helps her network with creative individuals, both in the artistic and business fields.
- Dmitry Goryleshev, artistic director and co-founder of an art school, emphasizes the importance of art education for personal and professional growth, regardless of age or background.
