In Our Hands: The Power of Using Our Hands Creatively and Why It Matters

In Our Hands is a fascinating look at the benefits of using your hands creatively, from the psychological to the physiological. Since the very first cave paintings, human beings have been using their hands to express themselves. This book brings to life the multitude of advantages to be found in using your hands creatively, featuring case studies of various artists, makers and creators, as well as short essays and creative activities. The book is split into four distinct sections: • Chapter 1: Making a Mark. Looking at the early history of using our hands, how it helped to define us as a species and what we can learn from the cave paintings, artefacts and meditative rituals of our distant ancestors. • Chapter 2: The Feel of It. Taking the physiological perspective, examining the structure of the hands, how the sense of touch works, the miracle of hand-eye coordination and how the brain fine-tunes the precise movements of our fingers when we create something. • Chapter 3: Hand and Head. Focusing on the psychological benefits of painting, drawing, shaping, stitching and other creative activities. • Chapter 4: Many Hands. Looking at the social, political and cultural aspects of using our hands creatively, and its importance for the individual as well as to society as a whole. Featured case studies include profiles of contemporary painters, printmakers, ceramicists and textile artists. Representing a diverse range of cultures and media, they are all united by their love of working with their hands. The creative activities included in the book are simple projects, requiring no experience and minimal materials and equipment - learn how to make a monoprint with a leftover carton, or how to make your own charcoal in the back garden. Featuring thought-provoking insights into human creativity, this is the perfect book to inspire readers to explore their own artistic potential and to unlock the power that lies, literally, in our hands.