We sometimes undervalue the importance of creativity and art. Let's review the "power of painting"…
Here’s an inspirational story about art and resilience, centered around the painter Frida Kahlo, whose life and work continue to inspire millions:
Frida Kahlo: Painting Through Pain
Frida Kahlo, one of the most celebrated Mexican artists of all time, turned her physical and emotional pain into powerful and vibrant artwork. Born in 1907, Kahlo’s early life was marked by illness; she contracted polio at a young age, leaving her with a limp. But the turning point came in 1925 when she was in a horrific bus accident that shattered her spine, broke multiple bones, and left her bedridden for months.
While recovering, Frida began painting as a way to cope with the intense physical and emotional suffering. She set up a mirror above her bed and started to paint self-portraits. Her art became an intimate reflection of her pain, yet also a vivid celebration of life, identity, and Mexican culture.
Though she was often confined by physical limitations, Kahlo’s creativity knew no bounds. Her paintings are a blend of surrealism, symbolism, and folk art, deeply rooted in personal experiences. Frida often portrayed her body in distress, with elements like thorns, corsets, and open wounds symbolizing her ongoing battles. But amidst this suffering, she embraced her uniqueness and expressed her deepest thoughts through art, creating works that transcended the canvas.
One of her most famous quotes…
and because I am the subject I know best,”
…illustrates how she turned her isolation into a strength. Despite chronic pain and over 30 surgeries throughout her life, Frida continued to paint, becoming a symbol of resilience and empowerment, especially for women and marginalized communities.
Her life reminds us that even in the face of overwhelming hardship, art can be a source of healing, and creativity can transform suffering into something beautiful.
An Inspirational Video Showing The Power of Painting via Frida's Life and Artistic Journey.
This short film dives into the deep symbolism in Frida’s work and her profound influence on the world of art. It touches on the trials she overcame and how she became a cultural icon
My "Power of Painting" Art Experience…
Back in October of 2023 I decided to start painting. I hadn’t painted for 30 years since college when I did a handful of paintings for classes but I was not great or overly excited about it as I had other interests and my focus was graphic design but I did minor in illustration.
I painted consistently, almost daily for 3 months. About 5 months in I stopped for a moment and just looked at one of my paintings and just noticed how much pure joy my painting was bringing me. It was a beautiful moment.
What I realized was this was more than a random hobby, it was really healing for me. I was in an okay space but was dealing with a heavy frustration that was weighing on me. I had no idea that painting would help ease that pain and grief.
So moving forward I wondered how I might share the power of painting with others. I have ben sharing my painting journey on social media currently but that was kind of a one sided or short lived boost for my connections and followers. I wanted to see if there was something more I could do.
That is when I thought about teaching art in some way. Somehow, paint parties kind of crossed my path or thoughts. This would be a way to build community and spread my love for and the power of painting. In a few months I landed a kid’s Summer Art Camp gig. Then adult PAINT & SIP or Paint Party events. So I began sharing my love to help others explore this potential power tool for increased wellness.
Art Therapy, Consistent Practice and Statistics Exploring The Power of Painting Even Further…
So what does this mean for you? Art or “the power of painting” might be a tool for you to try. Here is some data I found based on some of the benefits…
Art therapy and the practice of engaging in art consistently have been associated with numerous mental and physical health benefits. Here are some key statistics and findings related to the benefits of doing art on a consistent basis, particularly through art therapy:
Quick Summary of My Findings…
- 75% reported reduced anxiety through art therapy.
- 45 minutes of art creation reduced stress levels for 75% of participants.
- 23% improvement in depression symptoms in those engaging in consistent art-making.
- 11-15% increase in brain connectivity and neuroplasticity.
- 21-23% reduction in chronic pain for patients using art as part of their therapy.
The consistency of art-making, whether as part of formal therapy or personal practice, can significantly boost emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being across various populations.
So here’s the thing… Painting might not be your thing but I would challenge you to try some form of arts and crafts and if possible try to build it into a habit or hobby because it is good for your health, wellbeing, and it’s just good for the soul. Data shows that you do NOT need to be good at the practice BUT you benefit JUST from doing the practice for 20 minutes or so and benefits increase with consistency.