Oscar Wilde once wrote that “life imitates art far more than art imitates life.” Everywhere we look, it is undeniable the influence that art has on our lives. The music we listen to, the movies playing on our TV, and even the food we eat can be considered art. October 25 is National Art Day. While its origins and founder seem to be inconclusive, one can be sure why this date in October was chosen.
Famous artist Pablo Picasso was born October 25, 1881. From childhood, he began drawing under his father’s guidance and he grew up to be one of the most well known and talked about artists of our time. People most know his art for its childlike drawings. Picasso is the epitome of everything art stands for. His freedom and expression are shown in his art and inspire many.
Not only is art something people find pleasure and joy from, but it has been proven to be good for your mental health. According to an article from NPR, Malaka Gharib wrote, “The act of creation can reduce stress and anxiety and improve your mood, [and] flexing our creative side can give us a stronger sense of agency — the ability to solve problems by imagining possible solutions.” It doesn’t matter what materials you do or do not have. Use this day as an excuse to become an artist and learn a new way to express yourself. As Picasso once said, “The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls.” Use art as an outlet and a way to let all your worries go.
Some activities you can do to celebrate National Art Day besides painting include visiting a museum like the Salvador Dali Museum or the Tampa Museum of Art. Another idea could be visiting your local craft store and discovering fun art materials you can use to create. You could also try to use anything you have at home; you could cut up some magazines, make collages, or even use expired macaroni shells to create a necklace.
National Art Day is a day created to inspire others to observe and appreciate art and encourage everyone to make it. Drawing, poetry, songwriting, regular writing, sculpting, baking, singing, the list could go on. Anything you could dream of can be considered art. Anything you pour your passion and heart into is art.
References:
Gharib, Malaka. Making Art Is Good For Your Health. Here’s How To Start A Habit. NPR, January 7, 2020.
“Pablo Picasso and His Paintings.” Pablo Picasso: 150 Famous Paintings, Bio & Quotes by Picasso
“Jellyfish Spirits” painting by Abigail M., published in the FLVS Virge Student Magazine