A story about art and wellness…
My love for art started young. I remember entering in art competitions and winning at a young age, looking at and drawing pictures from fairytale books, and then practicing portrait sketches with family. It is likely no wonder that I decided to study art at the University when i was older and have been drawn to anything creative ever since; pottery, painting, and interior decorating. Over the years, I got different degrees and focused on other things like family and pursuing a career in business that I completely lost track of what brings me the most peace and calm. I’m sure we’ve all felt that way at some point in our lives, which brings me to this juncture of making the effort to do what brings me joy and overall happiness. I started getting back into sketching during quiet evenings and began taking a pottery class or two, and I can’t be more happier of my 4th drawing with graphite pencil in this post and all the mental wellbeing it has brought to me.
If you’re looking at starting a new hobby or getting back into doing what makes you happy, here are a few inspirational tips:
- Take the first step. It only takes that first nudge and consistency.
- Give yourself grace. Getting back into your passion can be a slow process, Be patient with that process.
- Good things take time and perseverance is everything. Just because you’re getting back and struggling doesn’t mean you should give up. We’ve all heard the saying that practice makes perfect.
- Most of all, make the time to do the things you love. Doing what you love is like therapy for the soul.
Art Supplies
This sketch was drawing Day 10 (starting something new and finishing it in 2-3 days). This was my 4th sketch using graphite pencils H, 2B, 4B, 6B, and 8B. The paper used for this is Bristol smooth paper and you can get this from any art supply store or on Amazon. For someone who hasn’t sketched or painted in forever, it’s been such a rewarding experience. Even though it is not a perfect piece of art, I am proud of what I created and how this was like therapy for my overall well-being. You’ll be seeing more pieces from me in the near future.
xo,
Louise