Art Creation and the Mental Health: A Qualitative Study among Artists

Abstract

The article aims to examine the effectiveness of art therapy to maintain mental health. It is popularly believed that emotional catharsis in the form of art enhances positive mood, brings clarity to one's cognition, and so on. The study uses qualitative data obtained from open-ended and moderately structured interviews conducted among artists. The artists whose arts reflected originality rather than an imitation of a visible target such as portrait drawing are chosen for the study. The group is a mix of professional artists and self-taught artists. The study finds that the art therapy technique helps artists to communicate their thoughts, desires, and contentious emotions in a manner which is socially acceptable. The study says art helps people build self-esteem, bring positivity and self-confidence. Self-esteem, self-confidence and authentic identity are prerequisites for not only healthy performance and high productivity in organisations but also for becoming a fully functioning individual.