When art is nurtured, it becomes a catalyst for a myriad of positive outcomes that reverberate throughout society. Cultural enrichment blossoms as diverse artistic expressions capture the essence of different traditions, perspectives, and narratives. Conversely, when art is not nurtured, a void is created—a void where voices are silenced, traditions are forgotten, and creativity withers.
“Art… reacts to or reflects the culture it springs from.”
~ Sonia Sanchez
Growing up, my mother instilled creativity in me. She encouraged me to express my inner thoughts, feelings, and emotions through the arts. As a child, she would buy me sketchbooks, clay, paint sets, and more. My mother also enrolled me in dance classes and often took me to different museums. Coming from a family of artists, my mother instilled the importance of the visual and performing arts in me. I understand that through creativity, there is freedom, and that freedom lies within me. To neglect art is to deprive ourselves of its transformative power—to dim the light of human imagination and innovation. Being creative is important for Women of color because it is not just a form of expression—it is a means of reclaiming agency and building community.
“Black and Hispanic students lack access to quality arts education compared to their White peers, earning an average of 30-25 percent fewer arts credits, respectively.”
I had representation and creative freedom at home, yet in school, I did not. Black and Brown art educators were scarce at my school. In addition, my art teachers neglected to expose us to artworks that represented the Black experience; they often required us to re-create artworks from the Eurocentric worldview. I resisted their guidance to ensure that my artwork reflected my own lived experiences. However, they rejected my artistic expression which made me feel unseen and not good enough. This led to me losing interest in the visual arts and school altogether.
“Art goes beyond self-expression. It’s a way to connect with your culture. It’s a form of self-care and, especially during the racial reckoning of 2020, it’s become even more prominent as a form of activism and healing.” - (teachforamerica.org)
In a world where the voices of women of color are often marginalized or silenced, art offers a means to reclaim narratives, celebrate cultural heritage, and assert individuality. As an adult, I have rediscovered the need and want to be more creative. Black women like me who were not encouraged by the school system to remain in the arts are left with a void that needs to be filled. Those who were not nurtured as a child to be creative must find ways to express themselves and tap into their suppressed inner- child. Not to mention, adulthood comes with several competing priorities that also get in the way of remaining creative. From busy schedules, work commitments, and family responsibilities, there is little time for creative pursuits. Many adults may also struggle more, compared to children, to find inspiration for their artistic endeavors and may feel unmotivated to engage in creative activities due to stress, burnout, or other personal challenges.
Stapledon Arts understands the importance of creativity
in the lives of adults.
They bring forward childlike energy throughout their products. Black and Brown women, like myself, can see themselves being represented through their Kè Kontan- Paint Kits. Throughout community and customer engagement, we have heard testimonials of several Black women using these paint kits to pamper themselves individually and/or at the infamous girls night to decompress from the world. Stapledon Arts is dedicated to fostering a spirit of youthful creativity. With a commitment to inclusivity, they offer a range of art supplies designed to activate creative skills and nurture a sense of wonder and exploration in individuals of all ages. Stapledon Arts recognizes that creativity knows no bounds and believes that adults should be encouraged to remain young at heART.
“Don’t wait for permission to do something creative.”
~Ava DuVernay, Director
We are excited to share that we have collaborated with digital artist Dalma Norales to create a Brand New Kè Kontan - Paint Kit designed in honor of Women of Color. Research shows that creativity is an essential skill that helps adults be happier and more productive, both at work and in their personal lives….therefore we want to provide creative resources for people to experience joy when creating with our products.
To be the first to get your hands on our brand new paint kit design, be sure to head over to the Stapledon Arts Crowdfunding Page and pre-order it today!