From coloring to ceramics, creating crafts can bring joy to students’ busy schedules.

In an article published by the Cleveland Clinic, Scott Bea, clinical psychologist, shared how simply coloring positively affects the brain.

“Adult coloring requires modest attention focused outside of self-awareness,” said Bea. “It is a simple activity that takes us outside ourselves.”

The university offers a variety of art courses that non-art majors can benefit from mentally. Dennis Sipiorski, a professor of ceramics, discussed how making pottery requires students to use a part of their brains that is not utilized as much in other courses.

“They have to come up with an idea from their head and do it with their hands,” said Sipiorski. “There are very few courses that do that. You sit at a computer, and you make an image. That’s still a machine. This is them doing it.”

Nickeyia Johnson, a junior biological sciences major, shared that the ceramics class helps her brain rest from her calculus class she has before.

“It’s a nice calm down from thinking,” said Johnson. “You don’t necessarily have to think. You get to just feel clay and make something.”

Jean Paul Templet, a sophomore biological sciences major, explained that he discovered dendritic monoprinting from videos online and shared how the art soothes his mind.

“You’re relaxed,” said Templet “You take your time, and you can give it to someone as a gift.”

Templet explained why other students should consider the craft.

“You can learn to make something from two pieces of glass, some acrylic paint and some cheap tools,” said Templet.

From coloring to ceramics, creating crafts can bring joy to students’ busy schedules.