Oftentimes, we discredit the importance and power of creative works. Whether it is a consequence of college-aged students hyperfocusing on career goals or a belief that enjoying art is not a
worthwhile endeavor, we risk missing out on a world of beauty and personal growth. While professional careers are necessary to sustain life, beauty is what we live for. It is for this reason that I urge you to take advantage of the creative opportunities that you currently have access to. In doing so, you might discover new interests that fulfill a part of your life you never knew existed. If you are feeling particularly beaten down by all that college and life demands of you, experiencing the beauty that can come from an artist’s efforts may be the cure to your affliction.
It is important to remember that artistic expression is not only limited to the traditional paint-on-canvas or ink-on-paper mediums that we typically think of. The world of art is incomprehensibly large, and it is begging for you to explore it. Even if you feel as though you are well-cultured when it comes to art, I encourage you to explore more. Attend gallery openings that happen on campus and talk to those in the art school. Engaging with the creative community around you can be inspiring and educational. It can also broaden your perspective and introduce you to new art forms.
Find art that catches your eye, and be consciously aware of the thoughts that it conjures up. Pay close attention to these, as they are directly the consequence of experiencing the power of art. Oftentimes, you’ll find yourself thinking in ways you never have, or find inspiration from their work. An immense amount of satisfaction can come from producing creative works yourself. We are sometimes quick to judge the creative acts of others and, in doing so, oftentimes squander our own creative interests. This self-neglect of our creative desires is one of the most worrisome things about our modern lives. Suppressed creative urges can lead to feelings of unfulfillment and missed opportunities for personal growth.
Tap into the artist inside of yourself and experiment with mediums that interest you. You are uniquely situated in an environment that was designed with the hopes of producing a well-rounded generation. A part of this well-roundedness should include nurturing your creative side. The influence that pursuing creative interests has on other areas of life should not go
unmentioned. Specifically in academic work, creativity can enhance problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and the ability to communicate complex ideas in a manner that everyone can understand and appreciate.
If you choose to foster your creativity, you may find that bringing joy to the community that you are a part of through your artistic endeavors not only enriches your own life but also contributes to the cultural fabric of your surroundings. It is for these reasons that I encourage you to never underestimate the power and significance of art in your journey through life.
