Why Do I Make Art?

What is my why? Why do I make art?

It's an age old question that every artist attempts to answer. My answer has been a struggle for me. Over the years it has gotten easier to understand, I just do. I guess I still have no idea, and maybe the reason is insignificant. I have an inner desire that I have to feed.

We are all creative to some degree. The brain is hard-wired to be so. I guess the difference between an artist and someone else, is our choice to actively use our creativity. I choose to make art because I enjoy the process. It is fun to make things: the collection of information, the moment of inspiration, starting with simple materials, joining them, practicing with them, until you get them to do what you want, and that sense of accomplishment when you have made "it."

There is something to be said for the sense of freedom an artist feels. When creating, it is very liberating. There are no wrong answers, you don't have to follow the rules, and you can momentarily forget your worries, which can reduce stress. So I create, because the process brings me joy.
I suppose, there is a deep part of me like many artists that is trying to connect to others, that is trying to gain an understanding of the world, somedays its my coping mechanism, perhaps even my own therapist (it does cost money!). To make art is a parallel to my every day life. It is to practice living. You practice, struggle, grow, and repeat... practice, grow, and repeat... 

Then I step out into the world, and I see the good and beautiful things in the world. Because art helps me see them.