Do you like to draw? Or would you like to learn to draw? Recent studies have shown that drawing is great for your brain! As we search for ways to strengthen our minds as we age, it may be beneficial to add a few minutes of drawing time into each day. In the words of educator Edgar Dale:

“We remember 10% of what we read, 20% of what we hear, 30% of what we see, 50% of what we see and hear, 70% of what we discuss with others, 80% of what we personally experience, and 95% of what we draw.”

Studies have shown that drawing…

Increases active brain cells.
Drawing combines intelligence and creativity. The right hemisphere of our brain is responsible for creativity and imagination, while the left hemisphere is involved in logical tasks. When both sides work simultaneously and communicate, that’s when our brain functions at its best.

Promotes a sharp memory.
Learning a new skill like drawing helps stimulate neurons, which leads to the formation of more pathways in your brain and provides a way for electrical impulses to travel faster. This not only helps you learn better, but can even stave off dementia.

Helps observation skills.
With drawing, people become more observant, concentrate better, and begin to notice the details that surround them. Drawing, like painting, “… embraces all the ten functions of the eyes, that is to say, darkness, light, body and color, shape and location, distance and closeness, motion and rest,” — in the words of Leonardo da Vinci.

Improves communication skills.
Through drawing, you can express various emotions, trains of thought and feelings. Those with challenges such as verbal disabilities or shyness often times find drawing a better means of communication than having to rely on words.

Decreases depression.
Drawing is therapeutic — it’s an art with healing powers. It produces positive brain chemistry by increasing levels of serotonin. It also gets your endorphins going, as well as pepping up dopamine and norepinephrine levels — all of which lead to increased pleasure!

Improves fine motor skills.
The manipulation of pencils (as well as other art utensils such as charcoals or paint brushes) improves the capacity and ability of your grip — giving your fingers, hands and wrists a workout.

Boosts self-esteem.
If you draw something and you like it, it’ll boost your confidence and fill you with a sense of satisfaction and feeling of accomplishment.

Reduces stress levels.
Drawing is relaxing and a fruitful distraction from everyday obligations, schedules and chores.

Helps you rediscover yourself.
Drawing allows you to explore and embrace your inner self so that you are able to channel your emotions and point of view through creative art works.

… Is Fun!
All you need is paper and pencil. Draw something, unwrap yourself, stimulate your brain cells and boost your energy. You’ll have fun along the way!

Ready to learn more about drawing? Join us for our latest lecture series led by Professor and Architect Mark Keane!

This blog is adapted from the instruction of Professor Mark Keane. Professor Keane, who has been teaching architecture for over 40 years, supports scientific research that concludes drawing is good for your health.