Did you know that doing art regularly (even just once a month) can add years to your life??

In these tight economic times, we often drop the things that keep us well and connected and also skilled and practiced. So, why don't we look at generating some creative wealth instead? Creativity isn’t about being artistic, though some people are arty types. It’s more about being open, having a flexible mindset, being curious, thinking differently, trying something new, being innovative, and practicing these aspects daily.

We’ve seen the benefits of working with the five creative habits of mind, as tested by Claxton, Lucas and Spencer and now used worldwide across teaching and learning, work and enterprise. They include most of these aspects along with being determined and disciplined, inquisitive and imaginative, and collaborative.

Art and creativity benefit our wellbeing and mental health and lower stress levels too. But, don't just take our word for it. Read this recent ABC news piece about Japanese-Australian artist, Hiromi Tango, who sees her art as her “therapeutic program to manage anxiety and stress”. Tango has collaborated with scientists and health professionals on many of her intricate and astounding sculptural and theatrical works.

So we thought let's open up the studio for some creating and connecting this year and spend time on our creative wealth-building! From drawing time to belly laughs, being creative just requires space and time.

Psychologist, Katina Bajaj, says that “creativity nurtures our ability to be engaged in life, to feel enjoyment, happiness, and to get into a flow state.” She says,

It allows us to increase our energy and our excitement in ways that other well-being practices don’t.

And, it’s not always about being productive either. Just being able to have space and take time to dabble and see creativitiy as a tool for wellbeing is all it takes. Simple activities can work best, such as fabric string making, making t-shirt yarn, abstract art, geliprinting, drawing, and more. These activities might just end up forming the basis for ongoing projects and craft or art ideas that you can take to the next level, or simply - and most importantly - leave you feeling refreshed, energised, content and relaxed.

Sound like something you’d like to try? Then, join us once a month, or once a week, for some hands-on studio sessions. Bring a friend or come along, connect, and make some new ones! Register your interest here.