Don’t Allow Your Light to Burn Out– Manifest Your Heart in Art

Written by: Isabella Castle

Date: 11/24/2025

I’ve always loved to create. Some of the most vivid memories of my childhood find me with a brush or pencil in hand. The stages of my life are defined by the art I created. Right now, the majority of them are collecting dust in my childhood home; a trunk under my bed, space in my closet, my desk, and drawers in my dresser all filled with drawings. Every little corner of my room holds artistic pieces. Sometimes I take a trek down memory lane through the pieces I’ve created. Through them, I see how much I’ve grown– in both technique and subject matter. 

Cats and dogs from elementary which slathered the pages were later replaced by more human-like subjects as I grew older. The fluctuations between realism and mysticism throughout different parts of my life seemed to be indicative of my many emotional states. Currently, I’m pleased to find myself learning towards fantastical themes with their vivid color palettes and fluidity. The angry strokes from middle school have softened out to lighter, softer strokes. Though, the progression was hardly noted until I skimmed those old pages, revisiting my younger self– thankful I had kept them all this time.

Everyone can create; some more readily than others. “I can’t even draw a stick figure!” is something I’ve heard countless times. And while I never say it, I can’t help but think, “Well, what about a flower, instead?” I found early on that I limit myself when I focus too harshly on what I can’t do- or more specifically, what I can’t do expertly. Perspectives change, feelings shift, and the point of it all grows as do we. Something I was really proud of creating years ago may seem arbitrary and poorly made to me now. Simply put, whatever I create doesn’t have to be revolutionary in order for it to serve its purpose. But, what is the purpose? Taking intentional time to be creative allows not only for personal reflection but can also deepen self-connection. Whether I want it to or not, my heart is worn on my canvas. I can get nostalgic in my own art- imagine! 

With this, I implore you to find something creative to indulge in. Though before you start sweating, no, it doesn't have to be with paint. Creation comes in many forms and types. Mediums like charcoal, graphite, paint (watercolor, oil, acrylic), crochet, story-writing, poems, guitar, and journaling merely braze the surface. I find that creation has so many different outlets that it may be impossible to dislike each one of them. Surely you can find something you find minor pleasure in? It is important to keep in mind that finding pleasure in something and being ‘good’ at something do not equate. Realistically, though often dismissed, is the simple fact that to be good at something, you have to try. And in that “try” is a sense of vulnerability. I have struggled with trying to create ‘perfect’ creations and have often found myself in the spirals of perfectionism. However, I have learned that making something with the knowledge that it may turn out ‘bad’ with a lighthearted approach can ease those tensions. Doing so allows for the pleasure in the activity while acknowledging the urge to be flawless. The act of creation is innate to human-beings. The ritualistic process of creation allows you to open yourself up to new opportunities and ways of expression. So why not start with something mediocre? Mediocrity in itself is beautiful. 

The vulnerability in expressing yourself can be hard and scathing as if the weight of the world would be easier to lift. That’s okay. Expression is a skill that must be nurtured. But from the beginning it can be daunting, so trying something guided like a diamond painting or coloring book can ease you into the routine of creating until you find yourself inspired for more. Even activities such as these, which do not require as much ‘creative energy’ as the others, is a creative task. What colors shall you pick? Which image do you want to see at the end of the process? Even thirty minutes a day can let you create something magical. 

In this, the self-discovery found in creation can be subtle or it can be instantly transformational. Some find it more obvious than others, but it’s there either way. This may not be from the art itself but the way in which you view the world around you or how you carry yourself. There are many therapeutic techniques that intertwine with the creative process. When in situations where both voice and language fail people who are struggling, art therapy is a medium in expression and advocacy. While it is a niche part of the therapeutic options, the American Art Therapy Association, a non-profit educational organization that is dedicated to the growth and development of the art therapy profession, explains that art therapy can assist in regaining a sense of control, help ease anxiety and depression, and manage pain by moving focus away from the subject that is causing pain. This comes with an emphasis on not needing to be naturally ‘talented’ to be able to participate. 

Recently, I have emphasized to myself the importance of being able to enjoy the pleasantries of life. While the world may feel like it is crumbling around me, I find that it is important to realize that you must take care of yourself before you can take care of the world. If an afternoon painting session will help me in the long-run, then I will indulge. It seems counterintuitive, to engage in ‘play’ when there are so many things going wrong outside. At first, I thought this mindset was selfish of me. However, engaging in play is the foundation of creating a better world for both myself and the people around me. It allows me to give both my mind and my body a break from the constant stress. To act in “play” signifies a hope for a future - to come back to center and imagine. Particularly now, in difficult and busy times, it’s integral to allow yourself to enjoy activities that have brought you space for joy and creation in the past. Tackle a task rejuvenated and you will see better results than if you hit it while burnt out. It is not selfish but rather preservation of self. This is a therapeutic option open to everyone. While it won’t be ideal for everyone, I still implore you to integrate creativity into your lives, with or without therapy. Once a month, a week, or even daily. Even the smallest act of creativity is an opportunity to learn more about yourself. 

References:

What is art therapy?. American Art Therapy Association. (2024, January 17). https://arttherapy.org/what-is-art-therapy/