The Art of Opening Doors

noun: art; plural noun: arts; plural noun: the arts

1.
the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power.

Out of curiosity I googled the phrase “The Art of….”; and to my surprise found literally hundreds of topics apparently involving “art”. The topics ranged from the traditional like dance, photography and painting, to ones I found surprising like the “art of shaving, art of business deals and even art of coaching soccer”. Not what you would traditionally refer to as ART. But I love how the definition of Art states “ it is the expression and application of human creative skill and imagination.”

This opens the door and expands our horizon to explore the artistry within each one of us. Artistic talents can now take on a whole new dimension. One of my best friends is an artist with her culinary delights. Another has created a sanctuary in her home, where just walking in the door you feel at peace.A third creates magical gardens to both inspire and sooth the soul.

It’s reassuring to learn that Artistry can develop at any age as in the famous painter Grandma Moses, who picked up her paintbrush at the age of 78 and painted her way into Folk Art History.

Renowned American cognitive psychologist and author Howard Gardner believes that creativity is innate in each one of us. But to tap into it, we need to find what strikes that special cord in our soul. As Gardner said,

“Creativity begins with an affinity for something. It’s like falling in love.”

Some pictures of work from local artists at our Expressions of Spring Open House who have found their “love”