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  • Writer's pictureTom McPherson

Seven Reasons to Draw



You might on occasion wonder why you love to draw, considering how difficult and challenging it can be.


Here are seven reasons why I love to draw…


1: Drawing creates connections. The act of drawing increases brain activity and stimulates the brain to think visually and make visual connections.


2: Drawing creates spatial maps in our brain. Through drawing we can start to map out metal images of the world we see around us.


3: Drawing is relaxing. Drawing can be a challenge, but it is also a relaxing activity. When we draw we are in the moment. We cannot draw in the past or in the future. It is a physical activity, moment by moment.


4: Improve self-confidence. Drawing is a form of self expression. To learn to express our feelings visually can give us more confidence and self esteem.


5: Clarify our thoughts. Drawing is a great way to clarify and simplify our thoughts, through direct visual thinking.


6: Communicate. Once we have put our thoughts on paper, through the act of drawing, other people will be able to understand some of what we express. Through drawing we can tell a story, explain how to construct a bridge, record how we observe a ray of light on an apple. Draw is a powerful form of visual communication, communication without words.


7: Drawing to see. Drawing is a fantastic way to record what we see around us. The act of drawing sharpens our ability to perceive the world around us. To truly appreciate nature is a worthy aim for a drawing. By drawing things from observation we can notice and value the beauty of the world around us and this is rewarding in itself.


I have a number of online courses that explores a wide range of drawing ideas and drawing challenges. Perhaps the best reason to draw is to rediscover our natural creativity.


I hope, by considering why we draw, you will be inspired to explore and create drawings that reflect your life and your ideas.


You might on occasion wonder why you love to draw, considering how difficult and challenging it can be.

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