Humans have been making art for tens of thousands of years. Literally. The oldest known cave paintings are about 30,000 years old! (If you are interested in seeing them, check out this spectacular 3D documentary called Cave of Forgotten Dreams.) Clearly, art defines our humanity in the same way that cooking, sport and language does. There is no culture or society that does not produce art. It is a universal human experience. Creating art triggers an endorphin release in the brain, which gives rise to a euphoric feeling and enhanced immune response. The result is similar to eating chocolate, having sex, or exercising. Not only does art making activate a pleasure response, it actually improves health by reducing stress and pain. You can benefit from making art regardless of your ability or skill level. So go ahead, pick up a brush, a pencil, or whatever media attracts you and make some art! It is you human birthright to experience the natural high artists have enjoyed for tens of thousands of years!
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