October 2023 : The Artistic Divas World

The Power of Street Art: How Murals Can Transform Communities

1 Comment / Art, Communities enhanced by art / admin

In our visit with art forms around the world, this is #3 in the series. #1 was Mexican Folk Art, and #2 was Japanese Kintsugi.

Please feel free to revisit them or check them out if you missed them.

In cities around the world, blank walls and empty spaces are being transformed into vibrant works of art through street art and murals.

Far from being a nuisance, this public art form is having profound positive effects on neighborhoods and entire communities.

Ways the Art Murals can affect their communities

One of the most noticeable impacts is visual. When streets are lined with colorful murals, graffiti art, and creative installations, neighborhoods seem more lively and inviting. Drab spaces are filled with color and imagination. Long-abandoned buildings or construction sites become canvases for artists to beautify. This simple act of beautification brings energy and visual interest to areas that were once eyesores.

Beyond aesthetics, community murals can also build connections between residents. When artists collaborate with locals to co-create murals, it provides opportunities for neighbors to work together towards a shared goal. The murals reflect the culture, heritage, and dreams of the people who live there. These projects give the community shared ownership and pride in local public spaces.

Murals can also provide social commentary and messages of hope for neighborhoods facing challenges like poverty, crime, or lack of resources and opportunities. For example, a mural might highlight community heroes, share the neighborhood’s history, or envision an uplifting future. These affirmative images instill pride, combat negative stereotypes, and let residents know they have not been forgotten.

Public art has even been linked to decreased vandalism and crime in some areas, as the visibility of murals and improved aesthetics may deter antisocial behavior. Murals also provide constructive creative outlets for at-risk youth, keeping them engaged with the community rather than detached from it.

With so many potential benefits, it’s clear that street art and murals can be powerful tools for community transformation. The collaborative nature of mural projects helps bring people together, while the art itself visually reinforces the spirit and hopes of the neighborhood. By embracing street art as the positive force it can be, communities allow public spaces to uplift and inspire.

Examples of this effect from all over the world

Here are just a few of them:

– The Philadelphia Mural Arts Program has created over 4,000 murals across Philadelphia since 1984. Their murals beautify neighborhoods, engage youth, and employ artists. One famous mural is “Peace Wall,” a 1,600-foot mural envisioning peace in the midst of violence.

– In the Los Angeles neighborhood of Boyle Heights, murals celebrate Latino cultural heritage. Murals like “El Corrido de Boyle Heights” visualize the immigrant experience, while the massive Ramona Gardens housing project is covered in vivid murals created by young residents.

– In Minneapolis, the community-supported mural “Hiawatha Love” was painted after the 2020 murder of George Floyd. It promotes messages of unity, justice, diversity, and hope.

– After the 2010 earthquake, Haiti saw a mural renaissance. Murals like “Mural of Peace” provided comfort, memorialized victims, and projected optimism. Artists worked with locals to give earthquake-damaged neighborhoods new life.

– In war-torn Syria, young artists are covering rubble and bombed-out buildings with murals advocating peace and freedom. These murals defy violence by spreading messages of hope.

– The Tor Project commissions murals globally that raise awareness about digital privacy and freedom. Their #ArtistsForTor series brings street art and activism together.

These are just a few examples of how community-centered public art can uplift and empower neighborhoods, memorialize complicated histories, envision more just futures, and promote healing from shared trauma. Murals give communities a creative platform to be heard and seen.

Here are just a few other resources I found around the internet for your enjoyment:

Famous Works of Art From 30 Countries around the world

Unusual Art Forms from Around The World

Folk art around the world

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Kintsugi: The Art of Golden Repair That Unites the World

1 Comment / Art, Japanese Kintsugi / admin

Today in the series, we explore another art form from around the world. Just as we examined Mexican Folk Art in a previous post, today’s post on Japanese kintsugi discusses an ancient art form that brings beauty to something that ordinarily might be discarded due to damage or breakage. I hope you enjoy reading about this wonderful art form and look at the world just a little bit differently afterwards.

In a world filled with disposable goods, the Japanese art of Kintsugi stands as a testament to the beauty of imperfection and resilience. Rooted in ancient Japan, Kintsugi has transcended borders and cultures to become a global symbol of artistic creativity and the philosophy of embracing flaws. In this blog post, we’ll explore the captivating art form of Kintsugi and its far-reaching impact on artists and admirers worldwide. Here is a link to Wikipedia about this art form.

The Origins of Kintsugi

Kintsugi, also known as Kintsukuroi, traces its origins back to the 15th century in Japan. The word “Kintsugi” itself is derived from two Japanese words: “kin” meaning gold, and “tsugi” meaning to repair. Essentially, Kintsugi is the art of repairing broken pottery with a special adhesive mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum. Rather than hiding the cracks, Kintsugi accentuates them with these precious metals, turning what was once considered damaged into something extraordinary.

The Aesthetic of Wabi-Sabi

At the heart of this art form lies the Japanese aesthetic of Wabi-Sabi, which celebrates the beauty of impermanence, simplicity, and the imperfect. Wabi-Sabi encourages us to find beauty in the irregular, the incomplete, and the aged. Kintsugi embodies this philosophy by embracing the flaws and history of the object rather than disguising or discarding them.

Global Spread of Kintsugi

Kintsugi’s appeal extends far beyond Japan’s borders, captivating artists, collectors, and craftsmen worldwide. Here’s how Kintsugi has become an art form celebrated globally:

Artistic Expression: Artists around the world have embraced Kintsugi as a medium for their creative expression. The process of repairing broken objects with gold adds a unique layer of artistic depth, turning everyday items into works of art. Kintsugi workshops and courses have sprung up in cities from New York to Paris, allowing people to learn and practice this beautiful craft.
Cultural Fusion: In some instances, Kintsugi has blended with other artistic traditions. For example, Japanese-American artists have merged it with contemporary art, infusing it with new cultural perspectives and fresh ideas.
Symbolism of Resilience: It resonates deeply with individuals worldwide as a symbol of resilience and healing. People often turn to this art form as a way to mend their own emotional scars or as a symbol of hope and transformation.
Collectors’ Delight: Antique collectors and enthusiasts from all corners of the world covet Kintsugi-repaired ceramics for their unique beauty and historical significance. These objects tell stories not only of their original creators but also of the skilled artisans who mended them.

Kintsugi Beyond Pottery

While itis most commonly associated with pottery, its principles have inspired a broader perspective on life itself. The concept of embracing imperfections and finding beauty in the broken extends to many aspects of human existence.

Personal Growth: Kintsugi serves as a metaphor for personal growth and healing. Just as the golden repairs enhance the beauty of an object, our own scars and experiences can add depth and richness to our character.
Environmental Awareness: In a world grappling with environmental challenges, Kintsugi’s ethos of repair and reuse aligns with sustainability values. Repairing rather than discarding is a powerful message in our disposable society.
Cultural Exchange: This art form fosters cultural exchange and understanding as people from diverse backgrounds come together to learn and appreciate this art form. It embodies the idea that beauty transcends borders and can be found in shared human experiences.

Japanese Kintsugi is more than just a method of pottery repair; it’s a philosophy that celebrates the beauty of imperfection, the strength of resilience, and the unity of diversity. As the world becomes more interconnected, Kintsugi serves as a reminder that art can transcend cultures and inspire people to find beauty in unexpected places, fostering a deeper appreciation for the world’s rich tapestry of traditions and philosophies. So, as we gaze upon the glistening golden seams of a Kintsugi masterpiece, we are reminded of the universal truth that, indeed, “broken” can be breathtakingly beautiful.

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Halloween Family Crafts: Spooky Fun for Everyone!

Pastels: Mastering their Use

1 Comment / Art, pastels / admin

Pastels have been a beloved medium for artists for centuries, offering a unique blend of vibrant color and delicate texture. In this comprehensive guide, we delve deep into the world of pastels, exploring their history, types, techniques, and how to master their use for stunning artworks. Today, we begin a series about the different types of art mediums available today for you to experiment with. Previously, we explored art movements and art forms and you can see one of those posts here.

A Brief History

This art form can trace its origins back to the Renaissance era, where artists sought a medium that could mimic the softness of chalk but with more vibrant hues. Over the years, pastels have been employed by renowned artists like Edgar Degas and Mary Cassatt, who showcased the medium’s versatility and depth.

Types of Pastels

Understanding the different types of pastels is crucial for any artist:

Soft Pastels: These are the most commonly used type, known for their intense colors and buttery texture. They blend easily and are perfect for layering.
Soft Pastels
Hard Pastels: Harder in consistency, they are ideal for detailed work and sharp lines.
Oil Pastels: Unlike soft and hard pastels, oil pastels are bound with oil, making them creamy and great for blending.
Oil Pastels
Pencil Pastels: These are pastels in pencil form, perfect for precision and detailed artworks.

Techniques to Master

Pastels are versatile, and with the right techniques, one can create mesmerizing artworks:

Layering: Start with a light base and gradually add layers to achieve depth and intensity.

Layering is the foundation of pastel artistry. It involves:

- Base Layer: Start with a light shade as the base. This sets the tone and mood of the artwork.
- Middle Layer: Introduce medium shades to add depth. This layer often determines the primary colors of the artwork.
- Top Layer: Add the darkest shades and highlights. This layer brings out the contrasts and sharpness in the artwork.
- Tip: Always start with soft strokes and gradually increase pressure for deeper shades.
Blending: Use your fingers, blending tools, or brushes to merge colors seamlessly.

Blending is the magic wand in a pastel artist’s toolkit. It involves:

- Finger Blending: Using fingertips to softly merge colors, creating a smooth gradient.
- Tortillon Blending: A paper blending tool that offers precision and is ideal for detailed work.
- Brush Blending: Using soft brushes to blend, especially useful for large areas.
- Tip: Blend in the direction of the artwork’s flow to maintain consistency.
Scumbling: This involves rubbing one color over another, creating a unique texture and hue.

Scumbling is about adding texture. It involves:

- - Overlaying: Gently rub one color over another without fully blending. This creates a unique hue and texture.
  - Tip: Use a light hand and choose contrasting colors for a mesmerizing effect.
Feathering: A technique where soft strokes are used to create a feather-like texture.

Feathering introduces softness. It involves:

- Gentle Strokes: Use the edge of the pastel stick and lightly drag it across the paper.
- Directional Feathering: Change the direction of strokes to create wind, water, or hair-like textures.
- Tip: Maintain a consistent pressure throughout the stroke for uniformity.

Caring for Your Pastels

To ensure longevity:

Storage: Store in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Use protective cases or trays to prevent breakage.
Fixatives: Use a fixative spray to protect your artwork from smudging.While not a drawing technique, using fixatives is crucial:
- Workable Fixative: Allows you to continue working on the artwork after application.
- Final Fixative: Seals the artwork, protecting it from smudging and external elements.
- Tip: Always test the fixative on a small section before applying it to the entire artwork.
Handling: Always handle pastels with clean hands to prevent dirt and oil transfer.

Choosing Quality Pastels

Investing in high-quality pastels can make a significant difference:

Pigmentation: Opt for pastels with high pigmentation for vibrant results.
Consistency: The texture should be consistent, neither too hard nor too soft.
Lightfastness: Ensure that they are resistant to fading when exposed to light.

Learning the use of these versatile little chalk sticks requires patience, practice, and knowledge. By understanding their history, types, and techniques, artists can harness the true potential of this versatile medium. Mastering pastel techniques is a journey of continuous learning and practice. Each technique offers a unique dimension to the artwork, and when combined, they create a symphony of colors, textures, and depths. As artists, we must constantly experiment, practice, and refine our skills to truly harness the potential of our tools. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, embracing pastels can open up a world of creative possibilities.

Here is a video explaining some of these techniques:

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The Therapeutic Benefits of Art

Leave a Comment / Art, Therapeutic benefits of art / admin

In the past few weeks, we have been exploring art styles and movements and you can see those posts here. But today, let’s go back to basics and see why anyone should make art to begin with. Art has so many benefits that it is hard to put them all down in one blog post, but we will try to hit the high notes and talk about the obvious therapeutic benefits of art.

art as therapy — Doodling as a therapeutic benefit of art

Have you ever wondered about these benefits? Have you ever found yourself lost in a doodle, feeling the weight of the world lift off your shoulders? That’s the magic of art. It’s not just about creating beautiful pieces but also about finding an outlet for those emotions that words can’t quite capture. When you sketch, paint, or mold clay, you’re giving your feelings a stage to dance on, and it’s incredibly healing.

lose yourself in art — Therapeutic benefit of art quote

Now, think about those moments when you’re so engrossed in your creation that time just flies by. That’s the beauty of being present in the art-making process. It’s a form of mindfulness that pushes away stress and pulls you into the moment. And when you finish that piece of art, no matter how big or small, there’s this burst of confidence. It’s a reminder of your incredible talent and capability.

Ever heard of art therapy? It’s this fantastic blend of art and healing. Imagine chatting with a therapist, but instead of words, you’re using colors and shapes. It’s a transformative experience that’s not just for kids; adults can dive into it too!

an adult coloring — Coloring provided therapeutic benefits of art

And here’s the thing about art: it’s a universal language. For those who find it hard to express themselves verbally, a painting or sculpture can convey stories and emotions. Plus, engaging in artistic activities is like giving your brain a fun workout. It sharpens the mind and even aids in physical recovery, improving hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills.

But beyond the personal benefits, art has this incredible power to bring people together. Whether you’re attending a workshop, joining a class, or sharing your creations online, it’s all about building connections and fostering a sense of community.

someone painting something — Lose yourself in the therapeutic benefits of art

In essence, art is more than just pretty pictures. It’s a journey of healing, a trusted friend, and a therapist all in one. So, the next time life gets a bit too much, or you need a breather, let your soul dance on the canvas. Embrace the transformative power of art and let it work its magic on you.

Happy creating! 💖🎨

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