Have You Ever Wondered Why We Create?
No matter what direction I have taken in life, creativity has always been a part of what I do. As a child, I couldn’t help, but make something out of the materials around me. From creatures fashioned from mud dug out of the backyard to mermaids and dragons made from sand on the beaches of Northern California, my imagination seemed boundless. Even today, while waiting for a meal at a restaurant, I will doodle on a napkin, or twist a straw paper into something cool. As a person with a visual impairment, some might think that the challenges I face would hinder my creativity. Not true. The desire to make art prevails. But, why?
I love the bright hues of watercolors as they spread across a fresh white paper, or the cool touch and earthy smell of a newly opened bag of clay. It you’ve ever walked through a store and been excited by a colorful display or loved the feel of running your hands over a favorite texture, you can understand what I mean. It stimulates the senses and excites our brains. When we create, we take the driver’s seat for that sensory input. But creating is about output, too.
Through creating, we communicate ideas and emotions that are meaningful to us. And in sharing our creations, we connect with others. Communication and connection are vital aspects of our physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
For a time in my life, I set creativity aside, only to realize that my well-being suffered. I was not a happy person without some clay to pound, watercolors to splash, or bits of textured paper to arrange. I realized that I needed art as much for an outlet for my emotions as for a conduit for my ideas. For this reason, I want to help others tap into the power of creativity. I’m here to help.
As a professional artist with a Bachelor of Fine Arts, I have studied a wide variety of materials and techniques, specializing in ceramics, fiber arts, book making, and mixed media. As a licensed social worker, I share a passion for building communities and reaching those who face challenges to traditional services. As a licensed art therapist, I am eager to share the healing powers of creativity with everyone, no matter what age, background, or ability.
Whether you’re a seasoned artist looking to rekindle your unique inner voice, a crafter or maker who is facing physical or financial challenges to creating, or someone who hasn’t colored since childhood but are interested in exploring the healing powers of artmaking and community, I can help find a way forward. Let me invite you to try a Creative Community workshop, join an Art = Hive, or contact me to create a personalized plan. Whatever you choose, I look forward to beginning a creative journey with you.
Charlotte Reed
MSW MA LPATA
Founding Art Therapist
