The very nature of a work of art is something that is immutable, ephemeral, and infinite. There is only one piece of art like it in the entire world, and for that, art is something immensely special. In fact, the perception and creation of art are so innate to us as human beings, that drawings and paintings can be seen in caves from a millennium ago.
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Art is More Than a Gift
Today, not much has changed when it comes to artistic expression, which is why art is still the best gift a person can give. No one knows this better than award-winning pencil artist Samantha Messias, whose art is celebrated in communities from around the world. Approaching each piece of art as a hyper-realistic presentation of an image, tapping into such fine details that the drawings end up looking like photographs, Messias has learned how to take the gift of art, and make it therapeutic for herself.
“I have not had a fair life, nor have so many other people in the world today,” said Messias. “At moments when I could have given up and tossed in the towel, it was my art that encouraged me to keep going forward. I figured: how can I have endured such trauma, only to just quit?’ That is the power of art.”
For Messias, her art can do three incredible things both for herself and the people in her life today:
- Art supports being present: Art is something that is created in the present moment. It’s the embodiment of everything a person was feeling, right at that moment, and everything that they saw, heard, and felt while their handheld the pencil that was pressed to the canvas or paper. Art is the very essence of being present.
- Art can inspire others: When one person takes the time to create a new style, depict a certain image, and be vulnerable in expressing themselves through their art, it undoubtedly inspires others. Art can say what our words can’t for us, and it can in so many unique ways, make it easier for us to connect with one another. That’s why Messias is constantly encouraging other victims of abuse to use art in a healing manner, too.
- Art can be an emotional release used for healing: Art is used by therapists around the world to help individuals process what has happened to them in their own way. That’s why Messias has been drawing since age 5. She has used her drawing to heal, year after year, and now today, she is a celebrated artist whose work has made its way into international headlines.
The Saving Grace of Artistic Expression
“There is nothing quite like giving art to someone, and showing them that they mean so much to you, that you are willing to spend days or weeks creating something just for them,” said Messias. “I know for me, art is the best thing I have to give the world. Along the way, my art is what saved me.”
For more information, or to work with Samantha, visit: https://www.samanthamessiasart.com/.
