Making art is a uniquely human act, and one that provides a wellspring of health benefits

The act of creating art serves as exercise for the brain and is integral to physical and mental health. hzechphotography/Moment via Getty Images

When you think about the word “art,” what comes to mind? A child’s artwork pinned to the fridge? A favorite artist whose work always inspires? Abstract art that is hard to understand?

Each of these assumes that making art is something that other people do, such as children or “those with talent.”