“Hey, it’s okay to be different!”

Last week one of my students asked me why I love art? It was a good question, I started by saying,

“Well I guess it’s the same as if your Dad loves footy or fishing, or your Mum loves running or baking - in the first instance it’s a hobby that makes me happy”.

But then I stopped to think…. We are all doing the do of our daily lives, going around the hamster wheel, day after day, same, same…. school – work – washing - REPEAT. Using an art analogy life can become monotone, like a grayscale painting - a bit dull, lacking that splash of colour?

Of course, we can add excitement and fun through events, festivals, nights out and holidays. But these cost money and are not sustainable daily. So, what can we do to offer reprieve, variety AND bring colour to our lives to nurture our wellbeing.

Something as simple as enjoying a walk in the outdoors and soaking up the vibrant colours of nature or listening to music that connects with memories or through creative arts.

Creativity isn’t just about making pretty pictures; it’s about giving your mental health a serious boost and turning life into a vibrant masterpiece.

When you dive into the world of creativity, whether you are swirling paint on a canvas in a U Create Art class or doodling in a meeting on your to-do pad, something quiet special happens. Firstly your brain goes…..“ooo! a chance to have some fun!”

Now as you hear me say often, I am not an art therapist, but art is my therapy. I want to share my knowledge with you, to help you understand that the humble doodle could be the FREE medicine you’ve been looking for. You see, engaging in creative activities releases dopamine, the brain's natural “feel-good” chemical. It’s like giving your brain a high-five for a job well done. So, next time you’re overwhelm at work, a bit down at school, stressed with the teens grab something to draw with and something to draw on and let loose….let its flow!

And NO you don’t have to be ‘good at art’ to enjoy the benefits. Same as you don’t need to be an Olympian to enjoy sports. One thing I can share with 100% certainty from 20 years of teaching children is they don’t care if their skies are purple and their grass is orange?  And you know what they’re onto something!

Creativity is about breaking free from the confines of “normal” and expressing yourself in your unique way. It’s incredibly freeing and empowering when you let go of the rules and just create, you’re telling your brain,

“Hey, it’s okay to be different!”

Art can significantly reduce anxiety and stress, giving your mind the freedom to explore and grow. It can be a truly meditative experience, helping you to focus and center yourself. When you’re immersed in the creative process, everything else fades away. It’s just you, your art, and the present moment.

I see this gorgeous reaction from my students whether they are adults at a sip and paint class, children learning a new technique or online students connecting from a far. The A-HA moment of “Wow, I made that!”?  is pure gold. Creating something with your own hands builds confidence and a sense of accomplishment. Even if it’s just a doodle, it’s your doodle, and that’s something to be proud of. This boost in self-esteem can ripple out into other areas of your life, making you feel more empowered and capable.

One of the best things about art is that it’s not about perfection—it’s about expression.

So, go ahead, get messy! Splash some paint, mix those colours, and embrace the chaos. Life isn’t perfect, and neither is art, and that’s what makes it beautiful. Allowing yourself to make mistakes in art teaches you that it’s okay to make mistakes in life too. It’s all part of the journey.

At the heart of it all, art is about joy and personal growth. It’s a celebration of who you are, in all your glorious, colourful, messy humanity. Every stroke of the brush, every squiggle of the pen, is a step towards understanding yourself better and embracing the joy that comes from being authentically you.

So, next time you’re feeling the weight of the world on your shoulders, remember this: art isn’t just something you do—it’s something that heals, inspires, and transforms. Grab your brushes, your crayons, your markers, and let your creativity lead the way to a brighter, bolder, and more colourful life.

Happy creating!

Love Bess🎨✨