Art in Recovery

The Benefits of Art in Recovery

There are many forms of art, from music to painting to sculpting to writing and even food art. There’s no question that many artists have problems with addiction. Famous musician Nikki Sixx has been extremely public with his struggles with drug abuse. Authors like Ernest Hemmingway, Hunter S. Thompson, and Jack Kerouac have been open about their struggles with alcohol and drugs as well. There’s no doubt that these and many more addicted artists contributed greatly to our culture and their work has gone down in history. They succeeded while under the influence; many of them contributed their success and creativity directly to drugs and alcohol.

Many artists, when getting clean, wonder how they could possibly create art without using. Some of them give up on their art completely, afraid it would be a trigger or afraid that what they did would be terrible in comparison to what they did while using. Rather than saying drugs create art, many say pain creates art. Drug abuse causes great agony, which could inspire someone. Inspiration can come from anywhere, however. When we get clean, we learn to see and appreciate the beauty in life. As the world can always use more beauty, we need clean artists.

That, and drugs and alcohol deplete one’s ability to remember. Coherent thoughts disintegrate over time. The brain discontinues production of dopamine and other neurotransmitters, which leaves the user depressed. When depressed, it is difficult to focus or have enough motivation for the concentration needed to create art. As drugs become the main focus of the addict, the individual no longer has time for art. When he or she does sit down to create, it often makes little to no sense.

If you are an artist that’s new to recovery, don’t fret. Lost dreams awaken in recovery and beautiful art can be created with a clear mind. You will no longer be fogged, forgetful, depressed, and distracted. This author struggled with this in the beginning, but can happily say that with sobriety all things are possible.

~Cassie R