Art and creativity is a perfect way to convey our thoughts and feelings. Of course, it is rewarding in its own right but can also be incredibly therapeutic. Inside Out encourages the submission of readers work in the belief that the process of writing and illustrating, can often be enough to help us move forward with a clearer understanding of ourselves and any problems we may have.
With modern life being as stressful as it is, we can all stand to gain from activities which allow us to explore the things causing us anxiety, depression, physical illness or disability. Bearing this in mind, Inside Out shows how visual art is not reserved for the highly talented, and writing is not only for professional authors; rather both practices are ideal for self-development. As well as reader submissions, Inside Out offers ideas on how exactly to use art as a form of therapy.
Today, therapy includes the use of literature and many other arts; Inside Out gives instruction in the form of workshops written by creative therapists. In this way self-help and personal development are as easily accessible as the equipment needed to draw, write or paint. The magazine puts emphasis on the individual, so while help is available from sources such as the NHS, this help is often not accessible or long-term enough to be of real use. By putting power back into the hands of each of us, Inside Out makes lasting change possible.
In its approach and basic message, Inside Out is a unique publication - the first such project of its kind. It provides readers with the tools to access their feelings through the use of the arts and to then move on from them. As we all face so many stresses and turbulences in life, creativity through art can stand as a constant assistant. Inside Out understands as much and aims to spread this message through its many articles, reviews, submissions and creative exercises.
For more information or to order a copy of the magazine, see www.myinsideout.co.uk or email editor@myinsideout.co.uk
