Thrive = Art + Nature

” Art is a Harmony Parallel with Nature” Paul Lezanne

Whether you are spending time in nature or creating art daily, you are no doubt experiencing relaxation and inspiration in some form. What would happen if we mixed art and nature as we do with paint colors? What new “color” would be created?

Looking a little bit closer, I found that the studies of the impact of art and the studies of the outcome of being in nature are almost identical.

Art Studies Suggest:

• Creating art expands a child’s ability to interact with the world around them, and provides a new set of skills for self-expression and communication. Not only does art help to develop the right side of the brain, but it also cultivates important skills that benefit a child’s development.
• Art therapy can be valuable in treating issues such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress. 

Nature Studies Suggest: 

• The positive effects of exposure to nature include improved cognitive functioning (increased concentration, greater attention capacities, and higher academic performance), better motor coordination, reduced stress levels, reduced anger and fear, increased social interaction with adults and other children, and improved social skills.
• Exposure to nature not only makes you feel better emotionally, but it also contributes to physical well being, reduces blood pressure heart rate, and muscle tension.

Thoreau notes, “We need the tonic of wildness…At the same time that we are earnest to explore and learn all things, we require that all things be mysterious and unexplorable, that land and sea be indefinitely wild, unsurveyed and unfathomed by us because unfathomable. We can never have enough of nature.” 

There’s no doubt that art and nature are beneficial to the well being of our children, ourselves, our extended family and our communities. Mixing art and nature like paints can open the doors to creative joy. This matters, especially during this time of social isolation and the side effects of a global pandemic. This is a time when we can choose to ignite our inner artists while embracing everything the outdoors has to offer. 

Never in a million years did I ever dream that we would be in the middle of a global pandemic with the entire world in “lockdown” mode, confined to social distancing. As we embark upon these uncertain times with our schools closed, it’s important to find the silver lining. With every crisis, there is an opportunity. Are you gravitating to nature to find peace? Are you spending more time in nature with your family? Has your creative genius suddenly appeared?

Welcome to the Pop-Up Virtual Nature Art Studio! A 30-day creative nature art practice for children! Daily Nature-Based Art Activities delivered to your inbox for 30 days. This resource is designed for parents and families of young children; however, all ages can benefit from Nature Art and all are welcome!

The Pop-Up Virtual Nature Art Studio provides quick and easy access to an abundance of Nature Art activities and so much more. Join us TODAY or gift it to a family member. Learn more HERE.