FOREWORD

by Mary Rockwood Lane

“I found I could say things with colors and shapes that I couldn’t say any other way—things I had no words for.”
—Georgia O’Keeffe

Even before I began my career in nursing and teaching, I knew there were ways that we could help heal ourselves—and creativity was one of them. The focus and shedding of self-consciousness that goes into the creative process helps us step away from ourselves and untangle the everyday concerns that weigh us down. The pleasure that comes from making something with our hands, immersing ourselves in color, and creating something that wasn’t there before—that truly reflects ourselves—lifts us like almost nothing else can.

In the years that I’ve worked with patients and with the University of Florida Arts in Medicine program, I’ve seen my earlier thoughts confirmed a thousand times over. Creating art is a process of renewal, not just for patients, but for all of us. Looking at art inspires. It helps us think outside ourselves and, in the process, to rediscover the best of who we are. When we reclaim our inner artist, the inner healer emerges, too—it’s a force that lets the spirit take flight, and it spreads into every aspect of our lives, renewing our energy and self-esteem, while helping us discover our hidden gifts. That is what this book is about.

Drawing Calm brings art and renewal to life in ways that are accessible to everyone. It’s a guide to finding creative time for you, however brief, each day through simple steps and inspiring art. It’s a path to a new beginning, the start of a refreshing journey into the mind and spirit.

When I get started on a creative project, I like to begin by centering myself. Try it as you begin the projects in this book. It’s simple, just take a moment to settle into your body and breathe deeply. Gently relax your entire body. In your mind’s eye, focus on the area around your heart. Breathe into your heart, feeling deep appreciation for someone or something you love. Allow this feeling to spread through your entire body. The body will begin to feel calmer as the heart opens. This is an invitation to create, to be inspired and let whatever emerges flow. Take the time to step away from the busy demands and stress of your life, and never forget—all of us are artists.

On the High Seas, Sunset at Pourville; Coucher de Soleil a Pourville, Pleine Mer, Claude Monet, French, (1840–1926). Oil on canvas, 1882. Private Collection/Bridgeman Images.

Mary Rockwood Lane, Ph.D., R.N., is an associate professor at the University of Florida College of Nursing, and associate faculty with the Watson Caring Science Institute, working in the field of creativity and spirituality in healing. She is cofounder and director emeritus of the Shands Arts in Medicine program at the University of Florida. She is the author of four books with Michael Samuels, M.D., including Healing with the Arts, Creative Healing, The Path of the Feather, and Spirit Body Healing.