Often times when we hear the word “art class,” we think of our kids at a table with paint on their fingers and smock and the “masterpieces” they create that immediately get placed on the fridge. But art class can be so much more! Adults can sometimes be intimidated by the thought of trying something new, but in the classes I offer at Bailey Studio Art School, I create an environment of ease and comfortability so my students feel the freedom to create.
Here are five reasons why you should sign up for an art class.
1. It relieves stress.
Painting can take you to another place in your mind. When you get lost in your own creation, it takes your mind off bills, responsibilities, and the anxiety of everyday life. You become focused on technique, on learning new skills and watching your brush closely as it works to create something from nothing. When you create art that makes you happy, it releases endorphins lowers stress levels and gives you a sense of accomplishment.
2. It teaches you something new and reignites the brain.
As we get older, we settle into routines that often make our brains work less hard. We mindlessly move from task to task, and the ability to be creative and spontaneous slowly drifts away. But when you learn a new skill, particularly one that is focused on being creative, it interrupts our routine and forces neurons to start firing again. Studies have also shown that it leads to improved memory and cognitive abilities.
3. You meet new people.
Let’s face it-making friends as an adult is hard, especially once your kids are out of the house and you lose that commonality you once had at your disposal. Taking an art class forces you to get out of the house and engage with other adults who are probably learning this skill for the first time as well. Having friends in our lives that we regularly engage with improves our overall mood and outlook on life, and in an art class, you’re forced to be a little vulnerable and open up to others a bit more than usual.
4. You might rediscover your passion for life.
As adults, we often get bogged down by our responsibilities and what we assume are adult priorities. If you’re not careful, your life can pass you by as you work to keep up with the Joneses. But taking a step back and allowing yourself to try something new, and giving yourself permission to do something different, may awaken the passion for life you lost somewhere along the way. Being creative allows you to imagine that your life could be just a little bit different, which can be very exciting.
5. You might actually be an artist in the making!
It feels so good when we try something new and it turns out well. Whether it’s a new recipe, a DIY project or a piece of art, when we put ourselves out there and try something new--and it actually works out--it makes us feel a deep sense of pride and accomplishment. Perhaps you’ve always had a secret longing to turn on some great music, take out your brushes and paint and create something timeless and perfectly you. What better time than right now to take the leap and begin your journey to becoming an artist? You never know what capabilities lie within, until you explore the possibilities.
With each class I teach, I bring the same amount of passion and skill that I do when I’m creating a commissioned piece. Each month, I teach several classes, including two separate series classes and an open studio live model class. You can find our more here and hopefully decide that today is the day YOU want to join us!