The Power of Creative Process: Artistic Expression and Spiritual Connection

I’m painting two pots and some flowers, but it’s about more than what’s on the surface. Art is always like that. The pots and flowers are grief and gratefulness mingled together: memories of my past that are bittersweet. Then, there are the bees which are significant. I’ve been stung many times. Once, it happened when I was a small child, and it was quite traumatic. Recently, one little, nasty bugger put me in an ambulance. If I had been stung under different circumstances- in the woods alone with no one around to assist- I’d be missing from the face of this earth. I may not be the finest human gracing this planet, but I have some people who need me. I am not ready to go yet. I paint in wonderment. Why am I still here? Why did God spare me for I am neutral at best: sometimes good and sometimes not so good at all. Perhaps, I still have work to do on myself or for others? Perhaps both? The surface of my canvas is a place to explore all these questions and ponder the answers that I hear. It’s my prayer. It’s my spiritual connection. It’s my way of making sense of things on my journey.  Creative process is my greatest tool for processing everything that life throws my way. I share it with others because it might throw them a lifeline, too. This blog is a place to consider the power of artistic expression. If you are an art maker, I urge you to dive deeper into your process. If you are hesitant and holding back from creating, let this be an encouragement to begin making art or returning to a past form of art making. One friend of mine finds peace in coloring books. It’s her way of finding meaning, and spiritual connection. It’s not complicated for her. It need not be complicated for you.  What could be your tool for making sense of everything life throws your way? Keep it simple. Try something: anything that entices you. May you find joy, new insight, and meaning. If you do, reach out to those around you. Share your work. Share what you learn. Encourage others to join you in discovering a unique and creative voice. Spread the power of creative process on your journey.