Ep 29: Stories, Emotions, and Connection through Art
Feb 06, 2023There is magic in art. It’s been around since early civilization and has remained a constant through time. There’s something about art that calls to the innermost parts of us, evokes deep emotions, and tells a story that seems to go beyond time. It’s this magic that we, as artists, want to achieve with our work. This episode is a reminder of this magic and why it’s so important.
“We have always needed a spiritual life. It’s a natural inclination and we have always needed a creative, cultural life.” – Joan Hanley
Today, we have with us Joan Hanley. She was born an artist, and her entire life has been dedicated to that calling. She’s a teacher, creative arts mentor, and the author of the book Art & Yoga, which is one of my favorite books. She works from her studio in Harrisville, NH, and her magical paintings are shipped worldwide. She also offers one-on-one sessions and has art & yoga memberships.
Three points of conversation Joan and I had:
- Growing up as a child with large emotions and not being understood by adults
- An exploration of the purpose, emotions, and stories carried in art
- Her favorite paintings and the stories behind them
Joan is very honest and sincere in her answers, providing a place of solace and understanding for other artists and creatives. She shares her worldview and the way she goes through life in a way that evokes wonder. With her words, she encourages creativity, gives space for emotions, and reminds us that there is a space and purpose for artists and their art.
“One of the greatest assets of a human being is imagination. And imagination needs to be cultivated just like anything else. And that’s what the arts do. They cultivate imagination.” - Joan Hanley
She shared an excerpt from her book What’s Going On and it reads “Art does not state facts. It does not always represent what is out there in the world. Rather, it evokes profound realizations and emotions, even relationships and values in all their complexity, subtlety, and levels of meaning. At its best, it makes invisible realities present for our visitation and contemplation. Art is a way of knowing and discovering.”
Connect with Joan Hanley
What's Going On Book
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