The Experience of Using Creativity to Process Emotional Distress Via the Visual Arts

This research study examined the question "What is the experience of using creativity to process emotional distress via the visual arts?" The heuristic model of qualitative research was used with ten participants, ranging in age from 23 to 59, who identify as visual artists. Eight themes were illuminated while evaluating the transcribed interviews. Themes included: (a) Art as communication and self-expression, (b) Daily use of creativity, in multiple ways, throughout the course of one's life, (c) Using doodling or sketching for brief emotional release, (d) Art making shifts focus from emotional distress to a creative task, (e) Being absorbed in the creation of art and losing track of time, (f) Intentionally using artwork to cope with emotional distress, (g) Sense of accomplishment and art as a productive or constructive outlet, and (h) After the Creation: A sense of relief, relaxation, emotional release, and calm.