Perhaps you voiced the words aloud. Perhaps they trouble your soul: felt but unsaid. How do we face the day, knowing what is done cannot be undone? Children are dead. For no reason. Families devastated. For no reason. Students traumatized. For no reason.
The brutality of the Uvalde shooting shatters our hearts. But what can we do? What good are my tears: hot as they are with rage? What good are anyone’s?
I have no answers: just the story of a gift, an Easter gift, long delayed. The package, a present from our daughter, arrived the day of the Uvalde shooting. The creators of the gift, artists Oleg and Darina, included with the present a note, handwritten in English and adorned with hand-drawn hearts: “With love from Ukraine!” Due to the murders we’re calling “Putin’s War,” Oleg and Darina had been forced to relocate, hence the delay in shipping.
The package arrived resealed: my guess is it had been opened and searched. Inside the taped-up box lay six smaller boxes. Each housed an intricately painted fragile egg: in perfect condition. They are, each, a wonder. Staring at them, more tears came: tears of awe, gratitude, and sorrow.
I have no answers. But I think of Oleg and Darina and realize that we live in a world of brutality and beauty. And that which way we lean—toward or the brutal or the beautiful—makes a serious difference in our lives and in the lives of others. Oleg and Davina lean toward beauty in the midst of brutality. Their choice guides mine, between tears.
Children, like everyone, have a range of talents and abilities. One child is great with numbers; another has a knack for words and language. All kids learn differently and at different rates. Still, children with learning challenges often face more frustration in their regular classrooms. But there is one subject that most kids enjoy being on the same playing field as their peers. It’s art! Painting, drawing, sculpting, dance, music, and crafts benefit all children, including those with learning challenges — the following article presented by A Spacious Placeexplains the hows and whys.
A Boost in Self-Esteem
No one’s art has to be just like anyone else’s. Art teachers emphasize the point that “it’s your art, and it can be whatever you want it to be.” This statement is powerful and resonates with kids who have learning challenges. These children often feel a lower sense of self-worth or even like they are less intelligent than their classmates. But, with art, the pressure to perform like everyone else is off, allowing creativity to flow and boosting their self-esteem.
Expressing Thoughts Is Easier
Children who learn differently sometimes struggle with communication. Art allows kids to express themselves in a way that is comfortable for them. Children who learn differently often deal with strong emotions that are difficult to explain or control. Art gives them an outlet for these feelings.
Improves Concentration and Reduces Stress
When doing art, the brain is stimulated as more dopamine is produced. For children with ADHD, increased dopamine results in improved concentration. As a result, art is enjoyable, and serotonin levels increase too. This feel-good hormone, produced when being creative, reduces stress levels.
Physical Benefits
Dexterity and fine motor skills improve when kids paint, draw, mold clay, use scissors, or play an instrument. In addition, large muscle groups get an excellent workout when practicing a dance routine.
A Dedicated Space for Creativity
Art is sometimes messy, music is sometimes loud, and space is needed for dancing. So think about utilizing an unused room or area of your home as a “creativity” space. A spare bedroom or unfinished basement converted into a dance, art, music classroom, or studio has many advantages.
Spontaneity
Setting up a table, gathering supplies, and asking permission each time a child wants to do a craft or practice dancing stifles creativity. An area designated for artistry means supplies are readily available and easily accessible when the mood hits. In addition, a dedicated space means unfinished projects stay on the table or easel. There’s no need to rush to complete a masterpiece.
Living Areas Remain Tidy
Paint, glue, and glitter get everywhere. A room containing all supplies, instruments, and even a dance bar leaves the rest of the house paint- and glitter-free. Music noise is greatly decreased and kids have a space to practice dance without interfering with the activities of other family members.
Increase the Value of Your Home
Converting an unfinished space into a finished space increases the usable square footage of your home. This could help boost the appraisal value of your property should you decide to sell in the future or if you need to leverage the equity in your home to finance remodeling or college costs.
Share Your Teaching With Others
After teaching art to your child, you’ve seen the benefits it brings them, and you’ve enjoyed teaching too. Consider reaching out to other parents with kids who have learning disabilities. Turn your passion into a business and offer art classes in your home’s art room or studio.
Teaching platforms provide teachers, tutors, and performers a place to list online and in-person classes and activities in Washington, DC, and around the country, and owning and operating a small business from your home has many benefits. Flexibility and convenience rank at the top. Further, being your own boss means you make all the decisions and your creativity has no limits.
Benefits of Art for Learning Disabilities
Children with learning disabilities benefit from doing art. Improved concentration, decreased stress levels, and a judgment-free outlet to express themselves are just a few. Working together with parents and educators, children who learn differently are better served.
Last month, I embarked on the lengthy process of rendering our Rock Penguins in wood. Yes, that’s Rock, not Rockhopper (well, mostly). Let me clarify.
One holiday season years ago, friends gave us a train display for our yard. Our daughters had the awesome idea of creating an Ozzie Osborne penguin to engineer that “Crazy Train.” Being constructed of cardboard, the train lasted only one season of Texas holiday weather, but Ozzie, painted on foamboard and sealed in adhesive plastic, lived on. He looked lonely, so we created him some friends. Rock friends, to be precise (and some are rockhoppers, as well).
First Chuck Berry joined the festivities, followed by Joan Jett, George Michael, David Bowie (aka Ziggy Stardust), Tina Turner, Freddie Mercury, and last year’s addition, Dolly Parton. But, even in their adhesive shields, our Antarctic friends began to show wear. Chuck’s guitar bled onto his arm, David’s head hung in a permanent bow, Tina’s feet in striking gold heels turned at the ankle. Our penguin friends began to take on a decidedly Halloween look.
We recently acquired a power saw and I saw—pun intended—my husband’s eyes light up in a way that astonished me. To my surprise, I had a Tool Time husband! I thought, why not recreate our Rock Star Penguins in sturdy wood, using paints intended for the great out of doors? We can repaint as needed, because they won’t need plastic adhesive shielding.
Emboldened by the idea and recognizing the enormity of the task, we journeyed to our home improvement store, purchased three sheets of four-by-eight plywood, had it cut into fourths, and motored home with possibilities bouncing in the bed of our truck. We toted the boards inside; I covered tables and floor with plastic; and we laid the wood out for Step 1. That’s when I got out the bucket of gesso.
Gesso, if the term is new for you, is pronounced with a soft “g,” as if we were a j: Jesso. Gesso is used to seal surfaces for painting: on a gessoed surface, the paint stays bright and doesn’t seep in. Fun Fact: Applying two coats of gesso, front and back, to large boards tucked into every inch of a home’s table and floor space is two things: boring and hard. It is possible that Pelaton might use the necessary moves to create a new workout video. The brush dragged along the wood; I ran out of Gesso and had to procure more; my back ached.
Kicking my thoroughly gessoed self, I thought, what a waste of money and time. But, we’d made the investment, so I might as well get on with it. Besides, the old penguins deserved to be thanked for their service and laid respectfully to rest.
Today, the gessoing is done. Looking at the boards, fresh painted with promise, I’m again feeling that sense of wonder and hope. I don’t know how long this project will take or how inconvenient it may be. Still, I want to do it. I hope to provide a smile to our neighbors during a pandemic that just won’t quit. I want to give my husband an opportunity to be Mr. Tool Time. I want my daughters to come home to a holiday welcoming committee straight from the rock stages of Antarctica.
Sometimes to get to joy, we first have to gesso.
What, for you, is gessoing? What helps you stay with it to the joy? Share your Soul & Solace thoughts with us at contact@aspaciousplace.com.
Have you tossed around the idea of selling your art? The connectedness of our world — and the widespread availability of various technologies — has made it easier than ever before to turn your work into a side gig. In fact, some artists have been able to generate thousands of dollars by using various marketplaces and platforms to promote and sell their paintings, pottery, handmade jewelry, and other creations.
If you are finally ready to begin selling your artwork professionally, yet still need time to create new art and work at your day job, use these helpful tips.
Learn how to legally start and run a business
Although you may be able to get away with it, selling your artwork without the proper permits and licenses can result in harsh penalties. On top of fines, some states arrest individuals who are selling products (even homemade goods) “under the table.” Rather than risk everything you’ve worked so hard to earn, commit to running your business legally.
To launch a business that earns you passive income from your art, research what is needed to operate both online and in-person. Most individuals start this process by applying for all of the essentials, including a business license, sales tax permit, and an Employer Identification Number (EIN). Even if you never plan on hiring employees, having an EIN (which is also referred to as a Tax ID Number or TIN) helps identify your business more easily. This number is often required for filing your taxes, applying for a sales tax permit, and opening a business bank account.
Promote your work on social media
Once you’ve officially launched your business, develop a social media strategy for promoting your art. Generating excitement around your brand is super helpful when looking to attract attendees for your upcoming events, workshops, and gallery unveilings. It can also help connect you with people who want to purchase your work online and locally.
Rather than simply posting pictures and descriptions of your work, get creative with how you market yourself. Use videos, Instagram Reels, and TikTok posts to give your fans a behind-the-scenes look at your process. Make all of your posts fun and engaging for the best results.
Approach area galleries, cafes, and event organizers to sell your work
As you begin to promote yourself and your work, begin approaching local organizations that can help you sell your work. This is key when looking to earn a passive income. Approach boutiques, local cafes, art galleries, and the like to see if they’d be interested in carrying your items. Oftentimes, there is an application process involved with arrangements like this.
Additionally, you should begin signing up for local farmers markets and vendor fairs. These are excellent places to display and sell your art. On top of sales, getting exposure within your area is also a valuable investment of your time. Unlike applying to have your work featured and sold at a cafe, gallery, or boutique, being accepted by vendor fairs and markets is much easier. However, keep in mind that selling your art at these kinds of events is a substantial time commitment.
Set up an online store and work space
Another essential component in having a successful side gig is making your art available online. Whether you sell paintings, earrings, or sculptures, this is critical for boosting your sales. It is also helpful for those who love your work, but cannot buy it on the spot at a vendor market or farmers market. Having an online store also makes it easier for individuals to recommend your work to others.
If you create much of your art from home, eventually, you may require more space to work. You can easily find apartments for rent in the Austin area by searching online and filtering for price, neighborhoods, and amenities. Currently, suburban apartments start as low as $600 per month, while centrally located downtown residences start at $1,500 per month.
Thanks to the latest ecommerce platforms, you can have a store up and running within an afternoon. Those with minimal tech experience can effortlessly upload pictures, write product descriptions, and select payment options.
Starting a side business to sell your work is a thrilling decision. Rather than wait for the “right” time, begin pursuing your dreams today.
A Spacious Place is dedicated to helping individuals with special needs create art in their communities. Learn how you can make a difference today!
Mardi Gras is upon us once again! We made festive masks and beaded necklaces with our groups last week.
Some tips if you’d like to do this activity with your own group:
We chose to do four different mask shapes; our participants love the variety!
You’re going to want good scissors to cut out the outsides of the masks, and a sharp craft knife to cut out the eye holes. Trust me on that part.
To help the cords stay put in the masks, we put a piece of tape over that area of the back of the mask before punching the holes. The tape doesn’t hold down the cord, but it does help reinforce the posterboard of the mask itself.
We actually tied the cord to one end of the mask ahead of time, even before the participants had decorated them, as it eliminated a step (we didn’t have to hand out cords that the participants would need to keep track of, nor tie them twice for every participant). Streamlining the process can be very helpful!
For the beaded necklaces, we pre-cut the cord to a certain length, and made a mark on the cord about two inches from the end (using white cord, we just added a dot with a marker). We then explained to the participants to please keep their beads between the two dots, so there is enough room to tie a knot. The visual reference seems to help.
Of course green, yellow, and purple are traditional Mardi Gras colors, and we mentioned that to our participants, but we provided markers, feathers, and sequins of all colors. Everyone could use whatever they gravitated toward that day.
Are you making anything fun to celebrate Mardi Gras? Masks or beads? King cake or pancakes? 🙂 Tell us what you’re making in the comments below!
Last fall, my husband, David, pulled our car into a lane in front of another car. The driver began tailing us, blowing her horn repeatedly. A glimpse in the side-view mirror revealed a face convulsed in rage and, beside her, a small boy’s fearful expression. She continued tailing us, horn blowing, until we turned into our grocery-story parking lot. Then she circled the lot until she found a space directly across from ours. As we entered the store, we turned to see her exit her car and walk along the driver’s side of our car. When we returned to our car, we found a long gash that traversed the driver’s side from the passenger door to the front of the car. The woman had keyed our car.
I felt sick looking at it. And for months afterward, when my eyes fell on that gash, my gut relived the event again. Why did she do it? Did she think David intentionally cut her off? Did she want something from us that we failed to provide? How was the child who was riding with her?
What to do? How to respond?
Touch-up paint would only cover up the gash and I wanted to transform it. So I bought enamel paint in a range of colors. Starting at the base of the gash, I painted a branch and, sprouting from that branch, leaves. Then I stenciled our mascot, the Spacious Dude, all around the branch like blossoms growing from the tree. Last week, I invited our campers to choose Spacious Dudes and transform them into representations of themselves. Today, the branch sports a host of colorful blossoms. It’s funky and, I think, beautiful.
And I’m not done yet: I’ll add our name, and we’re thinking of going onto the roof with clouds and some flying Dudes. I’d like other A Spacious Place members to be part of our “car art.”
What has the experience taught me? That violence is a reality: we all have the capacity for it. Hiding from that fact merely stunts our growth—to stay with the branch metaphor. But we can allow ourselves to feel the consequences (potential or real) of violence, and then find a way to transform it: be it through a sit-in, a march, a comedy routine, a poem—or a painted car.
A grandfather watches patiently as his granddaughter lifts fallen cedar bark into the nooks of two cedar trees: places the bark, steps back, places another strip of bark, steps back, studies her creation, rearranges it. For the child, this moment is All.
In his yard, another child hoists curved PVC pipe to his lips and exhales, creating a poignant, otherworldly tone. Exhaling, he moves the tone up and down the scale, absorbed in the magic he is creating.
These children never ask themselves, “Am I creative?” They might as well ask, “Does my heart beat?” “Do my lungs exchange carbon dioxide for oxygen?” They are, naturally, creative. We all are.
We express our creativity every day:
in how we guide children through the rough waters of human growth;
in the charts or graphs we prepare to communicate concepts;
in the ways we adorn our living space or our bodies;
in handmade gifts we create, from a PB & J sandwich to a CD mix of special tunes; and
in the ways we show love for other creations/creators, to name just a few.
How do you express your natural creativity? We’d like to know!
The Trail of Lights is going up at Zilker Park, Christmas songs ring out from our car radios, and and magazine covers boast recipes for turkey leftovers: the holiday season is here! Holidays mark the seasons of our lives; they form our souls and invite us to contemplate what we value and why. This month, consider a practice of reflective thanksgiving.
Recall a holiday from your childhood. Sit with it; allow the memory to take you into itself. How does the holiday feel? taste? sound? look? smell? Choose an art form through which to express your holiday memory.
Now recall a recent holiday. Follow the same practice described above.
Then imagine a holiday in your future. If you have children, how old are they? Where do you live? What matters to you? What dreams have come true in your life—on which ones do you still wait? Sit with your future holiday and imagine it with all your senses.
I knew it would be there. I’d seen the photo on their website and I held in my hand a glossy brochure with its reproduction on the cover. In fact, I’d come to see it. But when I stepped into the room where it was displayed, the crowd separated like a curtain drawing back. It stared at me with a frankness and a simplicity that stopped my heart and welded my feet to the floor. Van Gogh’s painting, The Bedroom, one of many Impressionist masterpieces on display at the Kimbell Art Museum in Fort Worth, Texas, appears simple on first impression, but it packs a punch. I couldn’t tear myself away. The reproductions just could not carry the power of the original. The painting drew me in and held me fast: studying me as I studied it. The painting transformed me.
We carry images in our heads of art museums being hushed-up places where only people with art degrees or mink stoles can feel welcome, but today museums provide recording devices that describe the artworks and the artists. Some even provide programs for children.
Sometime in the next month visit an art exhibit. It could be a display in a public building or even a downtown outdoor mural. Stand before the painting, letting it have its way with you. Don’t agonize over whether you’ve “got it right.” Just let it be what it is with you. Then respond to the artwork in some way: write about it or sketch it or describe it to a friend, or create something wholly new inspired by it.
