MJ's Easel
About Me
I have always believed that "beauty is in the eyes of the beholder".
Most of my life I believed that my art was not worthy of showing but always hoping that things would turn around. Taking things into my hands, here comes the change.
Art has been present in my life forever starting with an important presence in the ballet, modern, jazz and other forms of dance. I was lucky to have been able to be part of "Les Grand Ballets Canadiens" in Montreal. I was exposed not only to all forms of dance but also all types of musics from classical to contemporary.
Born in Montreal, but now living in Caledon, Ontario, I have had the pleasure of meeting several special artists that I consider very dear to me. These artists have given me the support, encouragement and energy to kick start my career in visual arts again. without their support, and the support of my husband I would never have been able to get into it again.
For many years I have been struggling with mental illness but always covering up and keeping things deep inside of me. The last several years have been difficult but the wonders of escaping into my art has given me an outlet to better deal with all the stresses that life has thrown at me.
Not having my art would have been devastating and keeps me in the moment and in a much better place.
My return to the practice of art has given me a huge outlet to explore several mediums. I cannot say that I concentrate in any specific medium as I like to explore all forms. From drawing, painting with acrylics, oils and inks to playing with Acrylic resin pours, skin jewelry, I am working on them all and rediscovering myself little by little
Why art?
Art Offers an Escape From the Everyday
The next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, take in some art to de-stress and inspire you. Idyllic tree-dotted landscapes and water scenes can be especially effective for encouraging relaxation, explains Jacinta Francis at Psychology Today. When you can’t get away to recharge, looking at some nature art or a landscape painting in blues and greens may be the next best thing.
Art Makes Good Medicine
Immersion in art can help you heal. The UK-based organization paintings in hospitals found that medical centers experienced an increase both staff satisfaction and patient health and happiness when contemporary art was introduced into the hospital environment. Studies showed that displaying original art in health centers also meant a shorter hospital stay and less medication for some.
When you want to feel better, pick up a brush or pen for yourself. Per a recent article by James Clear via The Huffington Post, an American study of more than 30 chronically ill patients revealed that taking part in the creation of visual arts improved their medical outcome, by helping to shift their focus away from their illness and diminishing feelings of distress and depression.
Art Opens Your Heart and Feeds Your Mind
Looking at art provides an opportunity to exercise critical thinking, experience a renewed self-awareness, and potentially even a deeper connection to others and their experiences, as we share what we feel and try to interpret what we see.
dication for some patients.
Creating art relieves stress, encourages creative thinking, increases brain plasticity, and imparts other mental health benefits. And anyone can do art. Creating art provides a distraction, giving your brain a break from your usual thoughts.