Steve Veasey
Steve Veasey candidly discusses his life, his epilepsy, and how his journey has brought him back full circle to his first love - illustration.
Self-expression through creativity is one of the hallmarks of being human. Every April 15th, we celebrate World Art Day, a day dedicated to the rich tapestry of human expression across cultures and generations. But it’s more than the sum of its parts – these colors, shapes, textures and sounds, enhance the human experience, by reflecting the cultural, social and political environments in which they are created. Art conveys powerful emotions, and can change the course of world history. So it’s fitting that today we investigate not just the origins of World Art Day, but the societal good that art promotes, and the health benefits that arise through artistic endeavor.
The history of World Art Day can be traced back to the International Association of Art (IAA), which was founded in 1954 as a partnership agency through the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) with the purpose of learning about artistic freedoms. In 2012, the International Association of Art (IAA) established World Art Day on April 15th of each year to celebrate the diversity and role that art plays on a global scale, impacting and reflecting our culture, society, politics, and environment.
DID YOU KNOW:
April 15th, 1452 was the birthday of Leonardo da Vinci - an Italian polymath whose works, talents and accomplishments epitomized the ideals of the Renaissance.
Art transcends political and geographical borders. It embraces all disciplines of creative endeavor, including painting, sculpture, music, writing, dance. Art holds a transformative place in our lives – enriching our imaginations, perspectives, and the human experience
Art is a reflection of the environment in which it was made, including all its diverse social, economic and political structures. Art is a reflection of the social, economic, natural and political environment in which it was made. It invites us to explore these narratives, and helps to foster cross-cultural understandings and dialogue. It is essential that this discourse remains accessible and inclusive – art should be accessible to everyone, regardless of background or socioeconomic status. Initiatives supporting art education and cultural exchange need to adhere to these principals so that everyone is free to participate in and benefit from creative expression.
Creating art is not only personally rewarding and enjoyable, but also offers a wide range of health benefits that can positively impact mental, emotional, and physical well-being. By incorporating art into our lives, we can experience greater happiness, reduced stress, improved cognitive function, and enhanced overall quality of life.
Some of the proven health benefits associated with engaging in artistic and creative endeavors include:
Creating art can do more than benefit our health on a personal level, art is a social construct that helps bring people from all walks of life.
Some of the ways engaging in artistic and creative endeavors can benefits society as a whole include:
Embrace World Art Day and join in on the celebration. Visit an art museum, create some art, or sign up for an art class or workshop – it’s a fun way to learn new skills, meet new people, and it’s fun for the whole family.
Art has the power to transform society and spark conversations about the issues facing our world today. From political activism to environmental advocacy, artists have used their platforms to challenge the status quo, raise awareness, and inspire action. World Art Day serves as a reminder of the evolutionary potential of art in confronting societal challenges to help build a more beautiful, inclusive and equitable world.
Art is more than just a celebration of creativity – it’s a testament to the enduring power of creativity to inspire, educate, heal, and unite us. As we commemorate this World Art Day, let’s all embrace the transformative potential of art in shaping a brighter future for generations to come.
Steve made the cover image for this article. He is a 38-year-old father, husband, author, writer, and illustrator, living in the Okanagan, British Columbia. Find out more about him below:
Steve Veasey candidly discusses his life, his epilepsy, and how his journey has brought him back full circle to his first love - illustration.
Steve’s personal website. Stay recent with his current works, collaborations and more.
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