It’s been that way for me since childhood, when I walked to elementary school imagining a wonderful world filled with bright colors and cartoon-like characters. I remember parent-teacher conferences where my teachers mentioned to my mother that I daydreamed often in class, leading them to wonder if everything was okay at home. It must have been embarrassing for my mom. I didn’t realize it then, but this was the beginning of my journey into the art world.

I would get in trouble at home for my innocent actions. My father would question me, but I always said, “I don’t know why.” I knew the reason but was scared to say it because I thought I’d be grounded and miss my Saturday morning cartoons. That’s how kids think; they don’t realize their minds can be artistic. I grew up in a different time compared to today.

I believe I was meant to draw, as I enjoyed creating cartoons throughout my teenage years. When I became an adult, I shifted to drawing family and celebrities. As a hobby, I discovered the human face became an interesting canvas, and I started doing face painting for friends during Halloween. Once I reached legal drinking age, I expanded my focus to the human body, finding it to be an incredible canvas. At this point in my life, I began practicing body painting, believing the body itself is a work of art. I see it as a canvas that can be enhanced to reveal beauty that’s often hidden. I developed this painting technique further and showcased it at various adult parties, including bridal engagements and themed gatherings.

When I transitioned from industrial labor to becoming a director of activities in Long Term Care, I utilized my art skills in the nursing home by creating crafts and painting residents’ nails. The elderly ladies were delighted by my approach, and I became their preferred nail technician. While I attempted to teach the activity staff my technique, they favored solid colors; however, many nurses and female staff participated in my nail days.

Art is omnipresent, requiring only an open mind to appreciate it. It serves as a therapeutic tool, transcending traditional forms like drawing and painting. The world, human body, and earth itself are canvases, with nature continuously creating and inspiring us. By embracing this healing process, we can find joy and healing through art.

Art is a matter of personal perception, often judged superficially like a book’s cover, without understanding the deeper story or vision behind it. Embracing this perspective can lead to greater healing potential.

Since my return to art, I’ve created many pieces, some with stories and others from fun requests. All my art is made with passion and love, whether in admiration for someone or with deep compassion.

My art reflects my emotions and stories without words, conveying my feelings of joy, sadness, and pain. I create to heal, sometimes wanting my art to be understood and other times preferring to keep it private.

I invite you to join me on my artistic journey, as it may also heal you.

Sincerely,

David L

Healingwithart