Why Paint? - Becoming an Artist Might Change Your Life 

Art saved me from a deep sadness after my parents died. It was a 180 degree turn around in focus, happiness and identity.

You are 100% correct Mark, art can save your life, I'm an example.

Speaking from my perspective as a retired psychotherapist, C-PTSD specialist, making art saves lives. I included writing, performing, and visual arts as therapeutic process. Because Often, the most dysregulating trauma events have no words and cannot be accessed verbally. Then they cannot be processed verbally without the risk of causing deep shame and hopelessness.

For me painting is something that makes me feel complete. And I feel part of something and I love the inner silence when I paint. It's like meditation. I also recently managed to abandon the idea "to be good" but rather to just enjoy the process of doing it. And the more you lovd doing it, the better you get. But really, what matters is the journey, not the destination.

I worked for many years in a psychiatric hospital where Art Therapy was a key component to the overall treatment. Besides completing a finished product that one lays one's hands to, the most reinforcing element to every painting I do is not in producing a masterpiece but in learning at least one thing about oil painting from each finished project. To me, that's what's most satisfying. For every painting I've done, I can identify at least one thing I've learned.

I am soon going to be 54. I have lost everything what a man dreams. Since few months back I was thinking to join Art college for painting. And now this video comes which is like a God send. After reading comments and watching this insight now I feel my planning to join Art college for painting course is the God's kindness for mine self care , love and support. Thanks for sharing this video.

I overcame a fear of painting with oils after watching your channel…it’s been a couple of months now and I just finished my 8th plein air landscape painting. So grateful for this channel! 🙏🎨

I started a couple years ago and it has been life changing. I see the world completely differently now

I went through a horrible trauma and healed through art and music. I realized my entire life of living with Abuse, I escaped through Art and it healed me. I now have a nonprofit to help heal trauma and PTSD through the arts. It changes the brain and creates healing. Today the schools have many kids that are suffering depression and it’s because they have eliminated the arts from the schools. The schools think that the arts aren’t important yet, these kids are in school eight hours a day with 3 to 4 hours of homework only working on academics. No Creative outlet for them to express themselves in a positive way. And then they wonder why there’s drug addiction and suicide and depression among the young people. Even though so many people in authority do not value the arts, it is the backbone of mental health and of appreciating beauty all around us.

Art has absolutely saved my life. I found art as a very young child (crayola 64 pack). I knew instinctively that is was so much more than the outcome. I'm 69 today and art is even more important to my well-being. It's like air. I can only live without creating for brief periods. The times when I turned my back on creating are part of my harshest memories. I illustrated and wrote my first children's book. It will be officially published by the end of this week. I'm still a creator

I have a very stressful job, and drawing and painting help me release so much stress. I think art in any form is a must for everybody.

I remember when you said you thought you were going to be this big time artist and then your life and art course changed. I believe you have become what you have set out to be in the world of art. Anyone who is interested in creating paintings and they encounter your videos , are no doubt grateful for your contributions to art. Thanks for sharing your passion and knowledge.

In life I tried different things and I got tired of it and left it, but when it comes to painting I fell in love with it and cannot get enough of it , I love being alone in my room and paint all day :) Thank you for your help with all these videos:) I built an easel from your video and came out great ! Thank you !!

I think defining yourself as an artist has a lot significance.

I think for as many people who exist in this world, there's a drive to make something MORE than just ourselves. We have something inside of every single one of us to express, speak a sort of visual language to the world through art and creation. Painting is an eloquent (if not expensive) means of doing that. It "personifies" the abstract of our thoughts, giving it life. So I've always had immense appreciation to people like Mark who help give tools and tips to others to allow them to take this personal journey. Thank you.

art helps me appreciate the world.

Huge difference. There is something about going to the 'artist's reception' for the opening of a new show at my local art gallery, and realizing that I am now considered one of the artists. Cool. Thank you Mark!

Those pots were beautiful!

I really needed to hear this

Mark, I discovered your channel during Covid as I searched for a way to get back to creating art after a 35 year break. Your amazing talent in teaching has been my guiding star. I can hear your voice in my head as I paint, guiding me with your method. Thank you for helping me find my creativity. Weathering life’s punches with art has been a blessing.

Thank you so much Mark for what you are doing.

Thanks for all you videos Mark, and this one is on point. I started painting again a few years ago initially with the sole intention of mental health improvement. Once you get going, painting is happening all the time even when driving. It helps to create new neuropathways and break out of the phsychological ruts our minds can get trapped in. It helps us branch off to more positove things and life becomes way more dynamic. Helps immensly with depression. Its also fun to share your works that you are particularly satisfied with for whatever reason. You feel like you earned it when you are rewarded by it. And so on ...

Winston Churchill spoke of "the black dog," which was a bad mental state he suffered from. When the black dog came, he would paint and that helped him cope.

Hoping it will. Been trying to go down to a 4-day week for a long while now to accommodate it. I'm enjoying hearing your thoughts on the relationship between art and meaning. 1st

Thank you for your video. I have struggled with bipolar and finding your videos is such a way to heal. I'm so excited that you are providing paint again. I have painted over 20 paintings and love the paint and for it being nontoxic. You are a master teacher and a gem.

This is why I do my paintings, illustrations to print on.....clothes. I want people to not just put my paintings and illustrations on walls but to wear them on their jackets, t-shirts, tracksuits, leggings, sneakers, bags and hangbags, even prints on denim and dresses. It's changed my life and other people. They tell me they get people stopping them asking them what does the paintings mean. When I finish them, I send it to client with also a detailed explanation of story behind the painting or illustration. That way they can have a full conversations sharing the story. I found it has brought people together, got them out of being socially awkward to use it to converse and talk about themselves too.

Many of us find that painting has a huge role in keeping us grounded and able to survive the problems that we confront daily. I too, have suffered from depression since 1995 and painting is one of the most calming things I do. It really helps.😊

I performed acting, improv comedy, playing guitar, and creative writing throughout all my adult life to escape being rejected abused and isolated. I had a rich joyful life because of it - In kindergarten as soon as I saw the ar easel, I lit up and the teacher could never pull me away from the easel. I loved to draw and paint but could not figure out how to make a living at it when I became older - but now in my older age I came back to painting. It is music expressed in colors and lines. I love it.

Mark, I so love your videos! Thank you for all you do. I am learning how to oil paint, and you help me SOOO much! Thank you!♥

I believe the particular concentration camp where the women were able to briefly create art was the Theresienstadt Ghetto. It served a propaganda role to show the "good" side of concentration camps. The children's opera Brundibár (composed earlier) was performed for the Red Cross delegation which visited and dutifully sustained the notion of "good" concentration camp.

Thank you for this. I have lived with gradually more limited mobility. Even before that, I lived with clinical depression for more than 40 years. Creativity though mostly painting made me constantly think of ways to make art, art techniques to achieve the desired result, and even modifications I could make to my environment to enable me to create art despite my disabilities. It has totally changed the focus of my thoughts resulting in far less extended depressive episodes. Goodness, even cavemen felt the need to decorate their caves and wouldn’t have done it if it made them feel bad.

Inspirational as always, Mark. I always find something of value in your videos. Thank you. 🙏

So many plusses to creating. My brother like all my sisters and I have that (gene?)to create. When he stopped painting, I asked him why and he said it was too much pressure to constantly create and be successful. There is very complex psychology in being a creative . Sometimes just because you can dosen't mean you must. And then there is the compulsive aspect. Meandering thoughts :)

Thanks Mark! My way of painting is completely different now but I started from draw mix paint. My first oil painting painting gave me commissions ! And now I sell portraits here and there. I prepare my first collection of paintings so I can get into galleries ! Thanks Mark!

This was really uplifting to listen to. I forgot how much I enjoy painting. Your insights into the need for human beings to be creative is such an important point to make. Thanks for being here for us all.

Art is the best medicine, whether creating it or viewing it.

Hi Mark, Thank you for this sweet , short, discussion ! As you were speaking I was drinking in your studio in the background as well a s the soothing quality of your voice. Your art tutorials are some of the best on the web! Thanks! Bill

I had art classes. I love to draw. Now I have written two children's books. It saves me from depression. Not everybody can do it, so I feel a litle special.

Mark, I agree. Art changes lives. I always wanted to paint and when I finally did in my mid fifties it changed my life. It felt like coming home. Now I’m teaching and coaching painting with oil, acrylics, tempera in realistic, abstract and also intuitive art. It’s mind blowing cool to see people change.

Glad you're still making videos. Your videos on color mixing found me at a transformative point in my life. Helped me grow into who I am today. Cheers and best of luck.

You are such a great guy Mark. Greetings from Winnipeg ~Matthew Feldvari-Sinclair

Art is a reflection that takes the doing of it too see.

Thank you! You've been such a an inspiration to me.

Thank you, Mark! This is 100% correct. 🎨

I am a designer. The need to create is so important in my life. I am in a point right now that Art, has been put on a shelf. My life is incomplete. I needed this .

I paint watercolor landscapes from photographs I take. It relaxes me and now I only send cards to friends and family that I paint. I envy your ability to portrait paint. That is my next plunge. I hope I find my way

I’m so grateful for the gifts I’ve been given , it has saved my heart & soul. Has helped me through it all. Thank yy

Thank you for sharing this message. I learned to paint with oils when I was very young and I made some beautiful paintings for family, friends, and teachers. But the world being what it is, the artist was figuratively beaten out of me during my teen and early adult years for the purpose of directing me toward what is considered financially practical. I am 38 now and picking up a paint brush again.

Painting is like nothing else I’ve ever experienced. When I was a kid, I had an inclination but no one helped me cultivate it .

Thank you so much for this video. Really resonates deeply ❤

Such a great pep talk! Yes yes yes! Beautify the world!

you are a great artist with a great personality and definitely you didn't know but you helped me too . Thank you SO much

I can speak from experience on how painting and art have improved my well-being. I was stuck and frozen for.maany reasons. But, the primary change I noticed first was how I actually see the world. How I focus on the light and the colors. I do get the feeling of accomplishment when I have successes for sure and those are great. It's a deeper change that happens. I think it even activates parts of my mind that simply were not used. And I paint for the joy of painting. I don't want to sell my work. I don't want any expectations or value set to what I created. I have more fun finding them in coffee shops and such with a note on the back that says if you love this, it's yours to keep and enjoy.

So true - thanks for sharing this with your audience

I’ve learned so much from you and I thank you tremendously! 🌷

What a lovely message. 🏵🌻🌻🎨💕

Thanks Mark, very inspirational!

The video beautifully captures how art not only enhances beauty and creativity in the world but also plays a crucial therapeutic role in personal growth. Embracing the challenges and joys of painting can profoundly impact our lives, underscoring the essential human need to create and express. 🎨

Hi Mark I was born there and I will never return even though I hear good things about the art scene. I love your channel!!

Great message. Also underrated is the affect of good architecture and well-designed schools on the students. The civilising effect is amazing.

. We are creatures that need to create because we come from a Master Creator, and we have been created onto His image.

Bravo!!

Art has transformed me. I felt listless and hopeless despite being in therapy for 4 years. I struggled with outbursts of emotions and then I joined art school and I have hope. I have so much hope and I have desire again. Desire to build and create. Nothing else could have cured me. Through practicing art, I have experienced being.

Great speach !!! Thank you for your work ❤

I 100% agree with you about the mental health benefits of making art… however.. with me it’s becoming an obsession 💁 I have an extremely supportive husband but it is a fine line I’m treading.. I only started painting a year ago and I’m no spring chicken so I think I’m trying to cram a lifetime’s worth of painting into whatever time I have left 🤣💁

Both art and teaching are hugely gratifying occupations. There’s something deeply relaxing about art it allows you to exist in the moment and truly see the world. So many of us do not notice the beauty that surrounds us. Art is a window into that

I didn't get deep into art until I was about 40, definitely changed my life, (nothing to do with psychological issues though) mostly in good ways, some not so much. Overall it's been much better since I let go of the idea of being a professional.

I have taught for over 30 years and I know many of my students thrived with being creative and painting. Later I also combined painting with meditation and it was well received. I also learned from my students and their experiences. At the end of each session it made my heart sing seeing the many happy and stress free faces. I agree with all you have said. Thanks.

I love to give my paintings to ones I love. Its an extension of you that hangs on the wall in their home, always welcome 😊😊

First time watching your video. Thanks for sharing the heartfelt knowledge.

Thank you!!

Yes, art gives my life meaning.

Thank you for your explanation, Im going to graduate next week in Studio Art

What you say about people taste and general appreciatiation for paintings is true just for natural landscapes. Less likely they will like any still life. Almost impossible that they will like to take in their living room any realistic portrait. But we don't do that for them. We do because we just love to do it such as your potter does.

I have been depressed, anxious and suffer with suicidal ideation for as long as I can remember. I often feel that I am an outsider and that I am tolerated as a person. A couple of years ago, I had a mental break, and decided that something had to give as I was not prepared to live like this anymore. I had always wanted to be able to draw and paint, but assumed I didn't have the talents required, so I buried the idea rather than chasing a dream. Currently, I am in my 2nd year of uni doing my art degree at 38 and having that creative outlet is definitely helping. I found your videos a few days ago while looking for content on how to approach oil painting, as I found it intimidating and I needed some guidance. Thank you for your content, it's helping break it down in the right way for me. Right I suppose I should stop procrastinating, I have to had in my first years work for assessment on Friday!

Very well said Mark! Art and in particular painting 🖼️ and writing ✍️ have changed my life for the better. I am now selling my work ❤which is very nice. I feel proud of myself and I’m also adding value to the 🌍 world. Thank you.❤ from Australia 🇦🇺🖼️🙏🦋

I loved every word you said ❤

Well said.

You're so right. ❤

Thank you for this

Im 20, Ive been drawing for well over ten years but i lost my spark for art a few years ago. I’d post my work online and although i had a following every time id upload something it would just give me major anxiety. Eventually art at all started making me nervous. I’m hoping i can relearn to love creating again with painting and unlearn some bad habits :) thanks for the videos

You are the paintings on the walls.

🙏🏻⭐️ thank you

Absolutely true

Did you ever write that book?

interesting, this is encouraging. My mom is a potter and sells her work regularly, and my medium is drawing/painting and I haven't sold one (yet) lol

Seeing Art everywhere and doing Art are two different things-one is vicarious; the other experiential (Osho). 🙏🏼😊

Great short video! Thank you! I'd like to know about the documentary on the children at the Nazi concentration camp because I'd love to watch it.

It does for me. Its the only thing besides meditation keeping me going...not even LOVE

I think it can be like meditation. It quiets the mind and allows flow and inspiration. Athletes do the same when they get into the zone of state or flow. You know when it feels good it’s for you. I blame my mom for thinking I was an artist when I made marks on the wall as a baby. She may have manifested my career choice. Like a mom she said she was so moved it was dramatic - and then years later art appreciation was like osmosis and effortless. So I just knew it was for me. But I think as long as we follow our bliss we can do or be anything. Art is about appreciation which like love is the highest state of being so no wonder it feels good when we let go of the struggle and allow inspiration to flow. 💖

Thank you so much for this. I have trouble getting oil paint to mix smoothly like acrylic. What can I do ? Should I add something ?

Every brush stroke gives me purpose. That is great medicine.

Yes i LOVE TO PAINT

Depression is often a lack of expression.

Tell your stydent to paint the pots and make them with holes in the bottom, then sell them locally. Gardeners love painted pots and buy them all the time.

What color is the paint on your studio walls? I would love to paint my walls that color and may even try painting a picture after watching this video. Thanks!

Thank you I was ab artist😊. I honestly have a degree and even had a license a a person who can restore icons and paintings . But our government had declared a law that restoring paintings could nit be a personal deal 😊

Art: Openness to Experience. It’s a biological trait; a temperamental pattern. 🎨☝🏿

I think it could open neural pathways. I kinda been trying to tell myself something since i was watching that old Stargate movie. When he was trying to draw in that sand to that girl. She started to panic and then knew which symbol.

Bonjour , j'aimerais bien commencer la peinture a l'huile, j'y ai toujours pensé mais ce qui me gêne cest les solvants utilisés qui sont toxiques ...