The Benefits of Original Art
“Patience in Bloom” in a coastal setting.
Mental health and well-being are major concerns in modern society, with many medical practitioners studying the societal conditions that influence the human psyche. Common mental health complications include depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, and PTSD, among others, each with its nuances and specific approaches to managing symptoms and achieving well-being.
Proven methods for addressing the myriad of mental health conditions include diet, exercise, shadow work, and forms of trauma analysis and release. However, there is a lesser-known solution that can significantly improve your emotional well-being.
Why You Need Original Art in Your Home
This little-known solution is original art, and meaningfully having it in your life.
Traditionally, the originality, creativity, and personal connection between the artist and the artwork determine a piece's value. From a practical standpoint, art is valuable for its versatility in enhancing the interior aesthetics of a home, creating a visual impact, sparking conversation and displaying personal style.
The beauty and intrigue of an original piece of art are undeniable; however, few people realize that it also has value because of its profound health benefits.
Before we get into the benefits beyond aesthetic appeal, let’s determine what is meant by ‘original art.’
What is Original Art?
Original art refers to work directly created by an artist, not a reproduction or copy of another piece. It is characterized by its uniqueness and the individual expression of the artist. Original art includes paintings, drawings, sculptures, prints, and other visual artwork conceived and executed by an artist. Each piece is distinct and often carries the artist's signature, ensuring its authenticity and provenance.
The True Value of Original Art
However, the value of original art goes beyond its originality, creativity, collectability, or the personal connection between the artist and artwork. Its true value lies in its ability to heal, lower stress, and enhance our lives.
These claims aren’t anecdotal and are backed by scientific research. For example, art in healthcare settings is linked to improved patient outcomes. According to Michael Lehman's research published in Healthcare Design Magazine, original art creates a more soothing environment, reduces stress, promotes healing, and enhances recovery. His research has led hospitals to make more conscious and strategic efforts in selecting and placing art within a hospital setting, leading to greater healing rates and improved mental states.
Inherent Health Benefits of Original Art
Enhancing Emotional Well-Being
Original art influences and enhances moods, creating a positive atmosphere in any space. Art's colors, forms, and subject matter can evoke emotion, from tranquility and joy to contemplation and excitement. By selecting art that resonates with your emotions and preferences, you can create a living environment that supports and enhances your daily mood. This mood enhancement contributes to overall well-being and improves outlook on life.
A study published in the Journal of the American Art Therapy Association found that engaging with visual art can significantly reduce cortisol levels, a key indicator of stress. Study participants reported feeling more relaxed and less anxious after viewing or creating art.
Calming the Mind and Body
Further research has shown that engaging with art reduces stress and promotes relaxation. Studies indicate that viewing art can lower cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress, while increasing dopamine levels, which are linked to pleasure and reward. Focusing on art can distract the mind from daily worries and pressures, providing a mental escape and a moment of respite. Incorporating art into your daily routine can thus serve as a therapeutic tool for managing stress and enhancing overall emotional well-being.
Fostering Emotional Connections
Each piece of original art carries a unique emotional resonance and personal story, both for the artist and the viewer. Artists imbue their work with their emotions, experiences, and perspectives, creating a deep connection between the artwork and its audience. When you bring original art into your life and home, you invite these personal narratives and emotional energies into your living space, evoking powerful emotions and introspection.
In the article, A Model of Aesthetic Appreciation and Aesthetic Judgments, researchers discovered that individuals engage with art through personal narratives, projecting their emotions, memories, and meanings onto the artwork. This subjective experience allows viewers to find resonance and relevance in art that aligns with their life journeys and values.
Healing Minds and Bodies with the Power of Original Art
Amidst the complexities of modern mental health challenges, original art is a potent yet often overlooked remedy. Beyond its role in enhancing interior aesthetics and personal style, original art carries profound therapeutic properties. Scientific research underscores its ability to enrich our lives through stress reduction, mood elevation, and improved emotional connections. By integrating original art into your living space, you will adorn your walls with beauty while fostering healing energies that resonate with your purpose and values.
If you feel down, disconnected, or simply unwell, an original piece of art by Lili Dauphinee may just be what the doctor ordered! I encourage the reader to browse her collection of one-of-a-kind, emotionally nurturing, and thought-provoking pieces.
