Art is an integral part of everyone’s lives. We have all seen at least some type of art, whether through paintings, acting, blueprints, or animated cartoons; art is everywhere! However, while that’s fine and all, we’re not here to discuss just any type of art; we’re here to talk about…. Drum roll, please…. DRAWING!!! Now, you might think that drawing is simple, boring, or just plain old dumb, but not me! So, without further ado, here is why drawing is not only just a hobby, but much more essential to the point where I think EVERYONE should do this!
Now, before I begin babbling on and on about why everyone should draw, I want to talk about how I picked up drawing as a hobby! When I was little, I didn’t have the best early childhood. My mom was working just early enough to drop me off at school, but got out of work at around 8 pm, and my stepdad was… not the greatest… so the only thing I felt comfortable expressing myself through was, you guessed it, drawing. The more I drew, the more I got distracted from my reality. I expressed my feelings, both positive and negative, about my life, my current passions aside from drawing, and my family. It has also helped me during my most difficult times, such as moving away, switching schools a multitude of times, and my beloved aunt and uncle’s passing. Drawing, quite literally, changed my perspective on life and how much trouble it gave me. Sadly, it couldn’t prevent me from rushing my early childhood…
Personally, I enjoy drawing for a multitude of reasons, but one reason stands out to me above all others: I can express my thoughts and feelings that I keep bottled up. I know, bottling up emotions isn’t healthy, but we can talk about that another day, maybe. The point is, when I start drawing, I forget everything in the now and draw what I’m feeling. By the end, I feel better, and I make eyecandy for myself as a bonus. As I progressively got better at drawing, so did managing my emotions! On the plus side, my childhood isn’t as bad anymore, so not only did I express myself through them, but drawing became something fun to do as well!
As you read, I assume you got the gist that drawing can be therapeutic, but that’s not the only reason you should try it! According to Roadscholar.org, under Why Draw? A Look at How Drawing Benefits Your Brain, it states how drawing enhances memory and resilience, boosts creativity, happiness, and concentration, mitigates physical pain, and reduces anxiety! Also, in my personal opinion, it’s really fun, gives you something to do, and when you complete it, you feel a sense of accomplishment! Drawing wasn’t just used for fun, though, as it dates back to ancient history, and it was used for communication! Funny, how an occupation and/or hobby originated from an ancient communication style. Now, to get all of this wrapped up…
As someone who has gone through a lot, good and bad, my mind is constantly flooded with thoughts of all kinds. Despite all that, as soon as I get my mechanical pencil, eraser, and sketchbook, I feel a sense of peace and tranquility. All of my senses go towards the drawing, from the sound and feel of the lead brushing against the paper, to the sight of the mechanical pencil leaving light lead trails, accompanied by my accomplishment. Long story short, I love drawing, and every single part of it. My suggestion for if you’re trying to find a new hobby, while any type of art is fine, I personally recommend drawing. Drawing has certainly changed my life; who knows if it can have the same impact on you?
Angel Rodas – Carmel Catholic High School – DMSF Class of 2029
Photo Credit: Angel Rodas