Art & Photography During Tumultuous Times
Art and beauty are a reminder of hope
Lately, I’ve been questioning the value of sharing nature and landscape photos when the world feels overwhelmed by chaos and suffering. We are flooded with a barrage of daily breaking news, updates from independent journalists on social media, and calls to action from activist groups. Action is necessary, but it is also more than our minds can really process.
“Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.”
– Thomas Merton
Balancing the need to stay informed with the ability to care deeply, while also ensuring we give ourselves time to slow down and recharge, is challenging. It's easy to be overwhelmed by compassion fatigue or even feel a sense of information shame for needing a break. In these moments, practicing self-compassion becomes crucial. Recognizing the importance of recharging allows us to return more focused and effective in supporting ourselves and others. Being creative is good for our mental health, letting us return stronger. We not only create for ourselves but also for others.
Even though I understand this, I still question whether making art really matters. Sometimes I feel like I’m not doing enough to help others, or I feel guilty for focusing on my art. At times, photography and art can seem unimportant or even selfish. But I remind myself that art isn’t just an escape; it helps us get through hard times and helps us support others, too.
“Art is the highest expression of the human spirit.”
-Joyce Carol Oates
A while back, a friend reached out to me after seeing a mountain photo I’d shared of the Tetons during sunrise. She said it reminded her of happy times she’d spent there years ago.
She’d had a tough week, and this photo was a nice mental break from it. It made me realize that sharing these moments can also give others comfort and a way to connect, turning my images into a shared experience.
Photography helps me manage daily anxiety. It’s a creative outlet that turns tension into something beautiful. When we create, we’re not ignoring what’s going on; we’re just finding a way to channel our feelings in a creative way.
Taking photos helps me slow down and notice the beauty in everyday life, which helps me feel grateful.
Through my camera, I see details that I might miss otherwise. My focus and vision narrow, and I see shapes, lines, light, shadows, and colors. It encourages exploration and play.
Creating like this gives me a feeling of peace and accomplishment.
One benefit of nature photography is that it helps me connect more deeply with nature. Spending time outside helps my body and mind heal. The peace and calm I experience are almost automatic. I love getting lost and noticing the wonders around me, the sound of birds, the wind passing through the trees, and the dew on plants that shows off intricate details.
It is an instant reset for my mind and soul. I’ve struggled with intense migraines for years, and sometimes going outside helps me feel a little better. Nature helps me feel grounded, grateful, and calm. Plus, my mood almost always improves right away.
Creating art is not about ignoring the chaos, pain, and turmoil in the world. Art and beauty are a reminder of hope, resilience, and the simple joys that still exist.
“The great power of the arts is to activate, renovate, and transform. Indeed, the arts, as the process of grief, can thaw what trauma and suffering freezes, or at least can help us better endure the sorrows and appreciate the joys of life.”
– Sandra Bertman
