Psychologists have used this same technique in helping abused children find a voice. Children don't always understand what is happening to them, nor do they have the words to express such trauma. But they are familiar with crayons and paper. As they illustrate a memory and make it real, they put to rest the frightening images and nightmares that wake them up at night.
Writing this blog made me think of Van Gogh, an artistic genius with a nervous temperament and a deeply emotional personality. His one desire was to make people happy by creating something of beauty. But he suffered from bouts of insecurity and self doubt. He also had what many believe to be epilepsy.
You may recall that when his friend and fellow artist Gauguin came to live with him, Van Gogh took a razor to him in an epileptic fit and ended up cutting off his own ear. After that incident, Van Gogh spent some time in an asylum and was later released. After only two months of freedom, he shot himself "for the good of all."
Van Gogh's greatest and most inspiring works were produced in less than three years of his life. He was driven by a passion for the beauty he saw all around him. The vibrant colors, the textures and the energy were excruciatingly moving to him.
I can relate to that. I remember admiring a resplendent sunset one evening. What I experienced was so deeply felt that I literally winced in pain. I could not find the words to express the beauty I saw. Those are the times I'm grateful I'm an artist.
A skilled artist can pull you into a work of art and their message reverberates within you even though you don't understand the why or the how. Art is good therapy for both the artist and the viewer.
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The oil painting is called "Insett Kirke" an historical site in Norway. It is for sale on my web site at http://carol-allen-anfinsen.artistwebsites.com/
One of my dearest friends has gone back to college (at age 44) to get her degree in Art Therapy so she can help cancer patients and their family members.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I'm e-mailing you a photo tomorrow that's probably a miss. But the colors are so amazing that I'm sending it anyway.
hellow..this is my first visit..
ReplyDeletenice blog my friends..
happy blogging, succesful!
I was directed here through your intro at BC.
ReplyDeleteEven before I read your blog, seeing the pictures of painting son it reminded me of Van Gogh. What happy colors they have!
I agree with you, "Art is good therapy for both the artist and the viewer".
I wish they let kids be more creative in school (music, art, dance) rather than always pushing the academic stuff. I think they'd be a lot healthier and happier for it.
ReplyDeleteThanks to all of you who visited my blog and took the time to comment! Blessings upon you.
ReplyDeleteAnd Kelly I'll watch for that photo. Since your photos are always stunning, I can hardly wait!