In the heart of Petersburg, Virginia, one local artist has created a space for anyone to hone their inner artist, providing a safe haven for free expression and mental well-being.
Watch the video above to see how Old Towne Studio 7 conducts their therapeutic art nights.
Denise Tipton, owner and manager of Old Towne Studio 7 in Petersburg, opened the creative space as an all-inclusive, comforting location committed to educating, nurturing, and inspiring the artist or craftsman within. Offering classes from painting, to music production, to woodworking, and even story writing, Tipton believes that creativity is the gateway to happiness – and science can prove that she’s right.
Denise Tipton, owner and manager of Old Towne Studio 7, instructs her class how to create a Vincent Van Gogh inspired painting. Photography: Kami Miles
Humans have long undertaken creative pursuits such as painting, cooking, dancing, and writing simply because they are enjoyable. Art is ingrained in the human psyche and is the most ancient form of communication and emotional expression.
Whether some pursue art as a hobby, as a living, or don’t believe they have an artistic bone in their body, art has been scientifically proven to promote good mental health. Artistic self-expression contributes to improved self-identity, amplified stress-reducing effects, and boosted brain health.
According to University College London neuroesthetics professor, Semir Zeki, the brain reacts to multiple stimuli when completing an artistic task or viewing something the person considers beautiful. This increases blood flow to the brain promoting healthy brain development and even healing in trauma victims. Zeki says that this increased oxygen reception directly improves the brain’s ability to problem solve, relax, and improve focus.
A recent study from Drexel University also found that making art significantly reduces stress-related hormones in the body. Participants were given a variety of material including paper and markers, canvases and paint, and clay. “The researchers found that 75% of the participants’ cortisol [stress hormone] levels lowered during 45 minutes of making art.” While some variation in cortisol levels occurred, there was “no correlation” between the levels of past art experience.
Tipton also reassures her customers at Studio 7 that level of artistic experience doesn’t matter. “Everyone has their niche,” says Tipton, “some people are more musically inclined than others while some are better with a paint brush, or even landscaping. We each have our own individual personality and talent that comes out when we are creating. We’re just all different – but it’s not wrong to be that way.”
Not everyone has the courage or the opportunity to enjoy time for themselves and focus on their mental health. At Old Towne Studio 7, Tipton encourages that anyone can be taught to create something, and that finding your calling is important.
Tipton agrees that sometimes we get stuck in a rut with our jobs and our households, and we don’t take that time to explore our options. “But sometimes something as simple as writing, sewing, working on a home improvement project like mosaics or gardening… just making something pretty is always good for the mind and soul.”
Artists that attended the paint night each created separate, unique works of art, and were given the opportunity to freely express their inner artists. Photography: Kami Miles
If you’re interested in attending a craft night with Old Towne Studio 7, you can visit their website at www.oldtownestudio7.com.
If you or someone you know could benefit from the healing effects of Art Therapy, you can find more information at the Art Therapy Credentials Board site on techniques, therapists, and the medical benefits of art.