Where did it start?
All creative work begins by doing something with your hands.
The human hand has been at the centre of visual art history not just as the main tool of creation but also as an important focus of painted hands, which is the oldest form of art in human history.
These are cave paintings discovered as a form of early art of wall paintings.
Long before written history, our ancestors left-hand stencils in ancient caves. Around 40,000 years ago, these early humans used their hands and red ochre pigment to create art. They pressed their hands against rock surfaces and sprayed or blew the pigment around them, leaving behind vivid handprints that still show their rich red colour today.
These handprints were more than decoration; they were like signatures, showing identity and belonging to a tribe. In caves with many handprints, we can imagine communities gathered together, sharing rituals and bonds.
The hand has always been a powerful symbol. Ancient people might have believed it could transform unseen energy into reality. Aristotle called the hand the “tool of tools,” highlighting its role in shaping the world.
Creating these paintings took ingenuity. Our ancestors used natural materials like charcoal, clay, dirt, and pig blood to create earthy red, yellow, and orange tones. This shows their adaptability and creativity.
During the Ice Age, hand stencils and other cave art were especially popular between 22,000 and 40,000 years ago. These artworks show the enduring human spirit and our drive to communicate and connect.
These ancient handprints remind us that the desire to create and leave our mark is as old as humanity. Today, as we admire them, we feel connected to those who came before us.
"Art In Your Hands" is a modern project that continues this legacy. It encourages community collaboration and creativity, helping people today create their own artwork and connect through the shared heritage of art.
The power to create is in your hands
"The magic lies in your hands; they are a direct line to your heart, the seat of your soul"
The hand symbolises the human tools used to create many wonderful designs.
Expressive art is looking at future thoughts, things you want to let go of or make time for.
The theme "Art In Your Hands" celebrates how we can use our hands for inspiration in crafting and art for wellbeing. I challenged myself to think of many different ways to draw, paint, or create with the hand as the main influence and focus.
From left to right........
Future hands: Draw around your hand and design inside the things you enjoy or are grateful for to remind you of the good things in your life.
Henna hands - in learning to draw simple patterns that could be used in hand art and sharing these on paper embellished with sparkly stones.
Target the hand: Drawing your hand with a target in the background and carefully matching each area was fun.
Hand in prayer on splashed water-coloured paper with zen patterns.
Spiritual hands with coloured pencils.
Zen hands - Draw around your hand and have fun with patterns
What can you do to be creative using whatever mixed media you like? Paints, pastels, crayons, felt tips, paper mosaics...........
Would you like to learn to draw .......
Zen Hands offers a step-by-step, easy-to-follow example of how to start drawing for wellness, sharing ideas and videos that can be watched at your own pace.
Things you will need:
Paper
Pencil
Coloured pencils, crayons or felt tips
and .........Remember, the power is really in your hands.
Would like to have a go yourself?
Check out the tutorials available for members in the resource library.
Not registered yet!
stART therapeutic art! in the community
We now offer art workshops in the community, allowing you to learn in person with me in a safe space.
I am Debbie, a Creative Therapeutic Art Tutor, Artist and Author.
Helping people find their creative spark.
They need to reconnect and discover their true selves by learning how to create through drawing, painting, and journalling for wellness.
Would you like to ….
Discover your splash of colour
Find a way to move the pencil on the paper
Channel your hands to open your heart
Need something positive and creative
Or would you or anyone you know benefit from:
Expressing themselves in a fun way with art
Be in touch with their inner child
Joining a friendly community that inspires and supports each other
Showcase their art and share ideas
Always there with a friendly face and open mind
stART therapeutic art! in the community
Activity at Penistone Leisure Centre.
“Art is in your Hands” was the workshop's theme, celebrating how we can use our hands for inspiration in crafting and creating.
The power to create is in your hands, and it's easy. Draw around your hand and design patterns inside, colour, or cut out fancy paper.
Creative and Wellbeing Week - May 2024
Art for Wellness has the pleasure of attending an in-person event hosted by Barnsley Council to celebrate "Creativity & Wellbeing Week"
The event was held on 22nd May 2024 in the Small Studio at Barnsley Civic, Hanson Street, Barnsley, S70 2HZ.
A selection of local artists and creatives have been invited to share crafty activities to support the event.
Art for Wellness CIC showcase
Helping people find their creative spark and reconnect with the
“Art is In Your Hands” theme.
All creative work begins by doing something with your hands
Learning Disabilities Week - w/c 17th June 2024
Organised by Mencap Learning Disability Week, launched its theme, ‘Do you see me?’ which is all about being seen, heard, and valued.
All about challenging the barriers people with a learning disability face.
Art for Wellness was invited to showcase at the art exhibition and event held in Barnsley at the central library with the "Art In Your Hands" project.
The "Art In Your Hands" project benefits our community, fostering creativity, connection, and wellbeing.
By engaging in hands-on artistic activities, participants experience a sense of accomplishment, reduced stress, and improved mental health.
This project encourages individuals to explore their creative potential, regardless of their artistic background. Community members can express themselves and connect with others in a supportive environment through drawing, colouring, and decorating hand-shaped designs.
Bringing "Art In Your Hands" to your community can create a vibrant, inclusive space where creativity thrives and everyone feels valued.
If you’re interested in arranging a workshop with Debbie Crouch, a Creative Therapeutic Art Tutor, please contact us at creativewellnessjourney@gmail.com
Let's create a masterpiece together!
Art In Your Hands - Community Project
Copyright © 2024, Creative Wellness Journey CIC
Debbie Crouch
Creative art for all ages and abilities. - Let’s share the beauty of creativity