Happiness and Art

Monday, 20 March 2023
by Chantalle Grummet

The science behind it:

“Art in any form, whether while creating or observing, reduces the stress hormone called cortisol. It also releases the feel-good hormones called endorphins which help you combat stress and pain. By letting you enjoy a sense of fulfilment, it transforms you into a more positive, well-rounded human being.”

I love this quote and find it to be true for myself at least. When I don’t create or think about how I would paint that/make that at least once a day I can feel the difference. The article is well worth a read as it goes into more detail about creating, what it means to create and how it can benefit you.

https://www.oilpixel.com/blog/art-makes-you-happier-and-healthier/

It is worth noting that the quote above also talks about observing art. So by putting on exhibitions like Allison Bell you can be a catalyst for stress reduction in others. Allison’s exhibition is on till the 27th of March at the Whiteley Fishbowl Gallery, Agonis Building, Gosnells.

https://www.gosnells.wa.gov.au/news-events/events/allison-bell-art-exhibition

The meaning of art according to the internet Google dictionary:

“Art is the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power.”

Whether you agree with this definition or not it has placed no criteria on the judgement of beauty or emotional power. As a creative person it can be hard to remember that beauty and emotional connection is different for everyone, so art is always subjective, and defined in the eye of the beholder.

Having recently learned that I did not get selected for the Minnawarra Art Awards I felt a bit of doubt and disappointment of course. Am I making Art? But then I remember that my opinion and the curator’s opinion are influenced by a totally different set of goals, values and interpretations (also there are only so many paintings that get in). I am proud of my painting still and I love it for the ideas and concepts as well as the materials, colours and time I have spent on it and with it.

My painting among many others will however be exhibited in the Extension Exhibition at the Armadale Arena in May. The Armadale Society of Artists will be manning the exhibition (roster forms are up at the Arena already) and hosting the opening champagne breakfast. More details will be announced by the City of Armadale soon as part of the Armadale Arts Festival starting 5th of May. Keep an eye on the festival plans and visit the page link below closer to the date!

'Reaching for the Stars' by Ray Seddon