Your Unseen Impact

As someone in an artist support role, I am very fortunate to witness some special moments behind the scenes.

I’ve watched someone hesitantly approach a wall at a Community Paint Day, afraid to ruin the artwork, only to be embraced by fellow painters who rallied around them with encouragement and tips. They left that day with paint on their hands, a toasty sunburn, and a smile on their face.

I’ve witnessed multiple creatives, who have long felt out of place, break down in relief while painting at TAOH Outdoor Gallery. Captivated by a place where their colorful, wonderful selves make total sense.

Mural at TAOH Outdoor Gallery by JBird the Vandal

I've heard participants at the start of a workshop boldly declare, “I'm not an artist,” as though that title could only belong to someone better. And then I’ve seen them hours later, completely absorbed in their creation, eyes wide with wonder. I've walked beside an artist as a collector chased us down the sidewalk, breathless. She was called to share the deeply personal, raw story of why she purchased a certain piece without a second glance. A sweet, sad tale of grief and healing. We all cried together.

Art is magic. It moves people.

It provokes, soothes, and electrifies. It starts conversations that might not happen otherwise. And it beckons dreamers out of the shadows to ponder, "maybe I could do that too."

Sometimes, we’re lucky enough to catch these moments. They are like shooting stars, after all. Blink, and you miss them. But just because you don’t see the ripple doesn’t mean it isn't happening.

More often than not, the impact of your work unfolds while you aren't in the room. For every person who tells you that your art changed them or made them feel seen, there are at least ten more who carry that feeling silently. People you’ll never meet, but who walk away holding something you created in their heart.

That’s the immense power behind what you do. Every piece you make is a portal. A way for your energy and your truth to expand beyond the boundaries of your physical presence. A way to exist in multiple places at once.

I believe art acts as a bridge between souls, collapsing distance and softening walls. It helps people feel less alone. It invites them to see differently, feel more deeply, and dream freely. Please don't ever stop creating. Especially on the hard days. Someone, somewhere needs to see it.

xoxo

Alexandra Smith