But I can

“Oh, but I can’t draw!“   I have heard this said so many times over the years.   Sometimes it is said more wistfully by somebody as, “I really wish I could draw.“   Sadly in both cases the person concerned has already convinced themselves that they cannot draw.

The ability to draw to a reasonable standard can be learnt.   You just need the motivation to learn – and to practice, practice, practice.   But this is true of any creative endeavour.

Nor is all art based on the ability to draw.   I recently discovered a type of art that involves no real drawing skill.   Moreover, it can be done with just a minimum of equipment.

Neurographic art was developed by Pavel Piskarev in 2014.   Piskarev is a Russian Doctor of Philosophy and Psychology.   His type of art has been described as, “a form of art therapy that uses free form drawing as a tool for personal transformation and self-discovery.”

The word neuro relates to the nervous system and neurons.   These are billions of cells that transmit signals from the brain to the body.   Graphic relates to visual art.

All you need to make a start with Neurographic art is a black marker pen (a Sharpie is ideal) and some reasonably thick drawing paper.   You will also need something to colour in the artwork.   This could be fibre tip pens, colour pencils, pastels, gel pens, or watercolour paints.   If you are using these, make sure you use watercolour paper, as ordinary drawing paper will warp and buckle.

Before beginning the artwork, it can be helpful to make a brief note of anything that is troubling you.

This is written on the back of the paper.   It could be a problem that needs to be solved, a challenge in your life, or a worry that is causing anxiety.   When the artwork is finished it can be useful to reflect on the process, and the issue written on the back of the paper.

You begin by creating randomly drawn lines and shapes (often circles) across the paper.   The subconscious part of the mind guides the pen.   The great advantage of this is that you don’t worry about having to produce a ‘perfect‘ drawing.   Perfection is not the aim of Neurographic art.

The next stage is to round off any angles with the marker pen.   This is done where lines cross each other or meet at a junction.   I personally find this part of the process to be very mindful and relaxing. 

Additional lines or shapes can be incorporated if required.   Then comes the fun part – the colouring in.   Once this is done the artwork is finished.   It really is that simple!

There is something very satisfying about creating your own artwork.   It is unique to you.   And doing it is a really absorbing and rewarding experience.

Sadly, most of us lose the spontaneity that we had as children.   Kids do not worry about creating art, they just get on with it.   So perhaps you could tap into your inner child and create some Neurographic art.   And remember it is not the destination, it is the journey that is important.   Enjoy! 

(Further information can be found online.   Demonstrations of Neurographic art can also be found on YouTube.   If using this, try to watch demos by accredited Neurographic artists.)

NOTE:

Neurographic art is a therapeutic art technique that encourages relaxation and mindfulness.   Developed by Pavel Piskarev in 2014, it involves drawing free-flowing lines, rounding corners, and filling spaces with color.   This process is believed to help connect the conscious and subconscious mind, promoting a meditative state and potentially reducing stress and anxiety.