Basharat Bashir

Healing Art

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It is an undisputable fact that art has been a source of comfort and relief for the troubled souls of humanity since ages. The transformative power of art is indisputable, and it has the ability to uplift and heal even the most anguished of hearts. Art gives us an opportunity to reassess ourselves, as well as world around us. It helps us to view life in a new and different light, and encourages us to go further into creative process of understanding.

Indeed, the creative act of art-making can be a cathartic experience, allowing the artist to channel their innermost thoughts and feelings onto a canvas or a page. Through this process, they can explore their innermost depths and grapple with complex emotions that may be difficult to articulate through conventional means of communication. Art provides a unique way for individuals to communicate their innermost thoughts and feelings without the limitations of language or other societal constraints.

Furthermore, the act of creating art can provide a sense of purpose and meaning for those who may be struggling with mental health issues. It can offer a sense of control and accomplishment, allowing individuals to take ownership of their creative process and take pride in their accomplishments. In this way, art can be a powerful antidote to feelings of hopelessness and despair.

The therapeutic benefits of art are clear, and it is evident that it can be a transformative tool for those who are struggling with mental health issues. As one of the greats Pablo Picasso once said, “Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.” Through the transformative power of art, individuals can not only see their world in a new light, but they can also help others to see it too. Art has also been proved to beneficial for children who find it difficult to communicate and coup up with academic procedures. Specially in children it has been proved that art boosts their confidence and overall academic performance.

Art surely is a powerful tool with ability to heal, to transform, and to uplift even the most anguished beings.

Sgraffito

Sgraffito, a lesser-known art technique, has long been used by artists to create intricate patterns and textures in their work.  The art of sgraffito serves as a window into the creative process, allowing us to peer into the intricate and detailed world of artistic expression.

Sgraffito, which means “scratched” in Italian, involves the process of layering colored plaster or paint and then scratching away the surface to reveal contrasting colors beneath. This technique has been used in art for centuries, dating back to ancient Egypt and Rome, and can be found in many different forms of art, including pottery, sculpture, and wall paintings.

The process of creating sgraffito art involves several steps. First, a base layer of plaster or paint is applied to a surface, typically a wall or panel. Then, a layer of contrasting color is applied over the base layer. Once the second layer is dry, the artist uses a tool, such as a stylus or knife, to carefully scratch away the surface, revealing the contrasting color beneath.

Sgraffito art can range from simple geometric patterns to intricate and detailed designs. The technique is often used to create a sense of depth and texture in art, adding visual interest and complexity to a piece. It can also be used to create detailed portraits or landscapes, as the scratching process allows for fine details to be added to the piece.

One of the unique aspects of sgraffito art is that it is a layered process, with each layer building upon the previous one. This allows for a sense of history and depth to be incorporated into the piece, as each layer adds to the overall composition.

In conclusion, sgraffito is a lesser-known but highly intricate and detailed art technique that has been used for centuries. The art of sgraffito serves as a clear and sincere expression of artistic expression. With its unique layering process and intricate patterns, sgraffito art offers a window into the creative process and the limitless possibilities of artistic expression.

Keith Haring

New York City artist Keith Haring, known for his bold and colorful graffiti-inspired artwork, and his murals often reflected his position on social issues. He sought to raise awareness of AIDS and fought against the proliferation of illegal drugs. Haring’s work was a defining feature of the art scene in the 1980s, and his legacy continues to inspire artists and activists today.

Born in Reading, Pennsylvania in 1958, Haring moved to New York City in the late 1970s to attend the School of Visual Arts. It was there that he began to develop his distinctive style, drawing inspiration from street art, pop culture, and the vibrant energy of the city around him.

Haring’s work often featured simple, cartoonish figures, which he used to explore themes of love, sexuality, and social justice. His work was often political in nature, and he used his art as a platform to raise awareness about issues like AIDS, racism, and nuclear disarmament.

One of Haring’s most famous works is the “Crack is Wack” mural, which he painted on a handball court in East Harlem in 1986. The mural, which features a bold red and black design and a message about the dangers of drug addiction, has become an iconic symbol of Haring’s activism.Haring’s art reflected his personal experiences with drug abuse and HIV/AIDS in powerful ways. His “Crack is Wack” mural was not only a statement about the dangers of drug addiction, but also a reflection of his own struggles with substance abuse.

Similarly, his “Silence=Death” image, created in collaboration with the activist group ACT UP, was a call to action for the government and the public to take action against the AIDS crisis. The image, which featured a pink triangle with the words “Silence=Death” in bold black letters, became a rallying cry for the AIDS activism movement.

Haring was a vocal advocate for AIDS awareness and prevention.Throughout his career, Haring used his art to raise awareness about issues like drug abuse and HIV/AIDS, and he used his platform as a famous artist to advocate for change. He was also a major supporter of AIDS charities and organizations, donating a portion of his proceeds to HIV/AIDS research and prevention efforts.

While Haring’s life was tragically cut short by AIDS, his legacy as an artist and activist continues to inspire and educate new generations. His work remains a powerful testament to the ongoing struggles against drug abuse and HIV/AIDS, and a reminder of the need for continued advocacy and support

Despite his short career, Haring was incredibly prolific, creating thousands of works over the course of his life. His art has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world, and his influence can be seen in the work of countless contemporary artists.

In addition to his art, Haring was also known for his activism and philanthropy. He founded the Keith Haring Foundation in 1989, which provides funding for organizations working to improve the lives of children and people with AIDS.

Haring died of complications of AIDS at the age of 31 on February 16, 1990. His death was a tragic loss for the art world, but his legacy lives on. His work continues to inspire new generations of artists, and his commitment to social justice and advocacy serves as a powerful example for all who seek to make the world a better place.

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