Art is a universal language that transcends boundaries. When we immerse ourselves in art—whether by enjoying or creating it—we connect with a deeper sense of ourselves and nature. Art can help us understand our identity, express our innermost thoughts, and facilitate healing.
Accessing and expressing our deepest feelings is one of the ways we can embark on a journey of self-discovery and learn to accept “the self” unconditionally. Self-acceptance fosters self-love and enhances our sense of well-being. The joy, beauty, and peace that art can bring make us feel free—and help us to be free.
When we or someone else gifts another person with artistic expression, we create connections, support one another, and share in this enriching mind-body wellness experience.
January 31st is the official Inspire Your Heart With Art Day, but why stop there? Let’s indulge in the harmony and emotional well-being that art provides by finding ways to inspire our hearts with art every day.
Here are venues and ideas that allow you to celebrate multiple art forms and the artist within you.
Inspire Your Heart With Art Day Spots to Visit
Art of Noize
Discover the beautiful noise this venue offers, including art exhibits, monthly open mics, and opportunities to rent their intimate space for your next event.
Petworth Area of D.C.
Second Floor, 821 Upshur St NW, Washington, DC 20011
The National Museum of African American History
Explore our rich, complex, and inspiring story through paintings, portraits, wardrobes, and more. The building itself is an art form, resembling an upside-down step pyramid. Entry to this masterpiece and several attractions is free; most only require registration. Events like children’s storytime, lectures, discussions, and screenings in the Oprah Winfrey Theatre await.
1400 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560
Shaw Neighborhood
Get your heart rate up while inspiring it with art by walking through one of D.C.’s oldest areas, the Shaw neighborhood, once home to Duke Ellington. As you stroll through this historic area, you may find yourself tapping your foot to Billie Holiday or feeling the vibrations of Louis Armstrong’s trumpet as you approach the Howard Theatre or the Lincoln Theatre. These venues host tours, or you might catch a live show. Use your imagination as you explore, or take a tour guided by Black Broadway Travel.
There’s so much culture to experience here and nearby.
The Kennedy Center
The Kennedy Center offers hands-on art-making opportunities, including the chance to create your own animated movie. They also have rooms available for rent to host your own arts events.
2700 F St., NW, Washington, D.C. 20566
Bookstores
Bookstores like Busboys and Poets combine art with social causes to inspire change. Enjoy the artwork on the walls, attend poetry readings by renowned poets, select a book, or participate in an open mic.
2021 14th St, NW, Washington, D.C. 20009
For more on bookstores that offer a wide selection of literature and artistic experiences like book clubs and open mics, visit my article, Celebrate Love Your BookShop Day: 6 DC Bookstores to Visit and Must-Read Books on Sex and Sexuality.
Inspire Your Heart With Art Day Ideas
Nature
Stroll through a park and appreciate the art of nature. Bring a sketchbook or journal to draw or write a poem about what you see, how it makes you feel, or what it represents to you.
Music and Instruments
Now is a great time to start those singing or piano lessons you’ve always wanted to take. Sing your favorite song at a karaoke bar, or, if you’re feeling confident, join a local singing group. Play your saxophone or guitar at an open mic jam session.
Dancing or Painting
Go dancing or take a salsa or African dance class. The Dance Institute of Washington has programs for children and young adults aged 18 to 24. Create your own masterpiece at a Sip N Paint, also known as Trap-N-Paint.
Writing
Attend an open mic to recite or read a poem or excerpt from your own writing. If it’s been a while since you’ve put pen to paper, why not dive back in? Write a poem, draft the first act of a play, or bring that movie or book idea to life by sketching out the plot you’ve always envisioned.
Theater and Live Performances
Indoor or outdoor theaters or makeshift stages all work. Watch a play, dance performance, drum circle, or comedy act.
Support the Arts
Attend a local show or event featuring up-and-coming artists. Support youth by attending school performances or events at churches, community organizations, or parks.
Consider donating to organizations or fundraising efforts that promote the arts. If you can’t contribute financially, you can still make a difference by volunteering your time to help with door duties or event organization.
Host an Artistic Get-Together
Organizing an artistic gathering is, in itself, a creative endeavor. With the right space, willingness, and imagination, the possibilities are endless:
- Arts and Crafts Session: Provide supplies or encourage your family and friends to bring their own materials.
- Photo Album Party: Print photos from your phone and create albums or books. Invite everyone to bring their pre-printed pictures and blank albums.
- Movie Night: Stream classic movies, musicals, or plays for everyone to enjoy together.
- Open Mic Night: Invite guests to showcase their talents in an intimate open mic setting at your home. Encourage family and friends to dust off their guitars or cellos. Your funny friend might appreciate the chance to entertain with a comedy routine, while the aunt who always wanted to act could perform a monologue. You might even inspire a neighbor to paint during the gathering, especially if you mention that guests can purchase the original pieces.
You never know; you might just be the catalyst that reignites someone’s dreams and helps them start living with purpose.
Be Inspired Every Day
Art is universal and exists all around us. We often recognize it in songs, dances, paintings, sculptures, rap, movies, instruments, plays, poetry, and novels. But do we also see it in the sky, grass, sunshine, laughter, and smiles? Can we appreciate the artistry in meals crafted with care and presented beautifully, or in the intricate patterns of braided hair that deserve to be celebrated?
If we take the time to look around, we’ll find art everywhere—and we’ll be inspired.
LaShonda Tucker
LaShonda Tucker is a freelance writer, poet, and spoken word artist in Atlanta. When she isn't writing, she enjoys playing her violin. She earned her master's degrees from the University of Georgia and Kennesaw State University, and her bachelor's degree in English from the University of Michigan.
