Does art have a purpose?

Ten years ago at a family gathering I spoke with my wife’s relative who was sat alone at a table. The drinks had been flowing freely all day and by mid evening the conversation was getting a little deep. They told me of their concerns with work etc. and I asked what the problem was. “Stress” they replied. It was the first time I’d ever heard anyone talk about stress and due to my ignorance of the subject it came as a bit of a shock. At first I thought they were joking but I soon realised it was quite the opposite.

In the years that have followed I’ve been genuinely staggered at how commonplace this illness is. I’ve watched family members as well as those in the public eye come forward to speak of their struggles with anxiety and other mental health issues. My initial ignorance of mental health issues has altered as I’ve become much more appreciative of the illness in recent times.

Many have found solace at the easel and find art a therapeutic process that can help ease symptoms. When the paint is flowing and a composition is taking shape our minds can sometimes escape the tortures and drift to a more comforting and soothing place.

I recently listened to a podcast where the presenter was speaking with students during exam season. The young adults spoke of their worries as they studied for upcoming exams and the pressures and anxieties this induced. The podcast host was interested in how the students coped with the pressure and their answers were fascinating.

A theme emerged as many of the scholars revealed how they loved watching Bob Ross’s Joy of Painting TV series. Bob’s soothing and calming voice as he described not only his painting techniques but also genuine love of landscapes and mother nature helped the students relax and find inner peace as they perused their countless text books.

Art has many purposes but none more important than the ability to invoke a calming response for those in their hour of need.