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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Holy Cross chapter.

Expressing creativity isn’t just for artists or professionals—it’s for everyone. Whether you’re looking to unwind, express emotions, or simply have fun, finding a creative outlet can be incredibly fulfilling. And with so many forms of art to explore, there’s a creative outlet perfect for everyone. Here’s a guide to some popular art forms to check out!

Painting and Drawing

Painting and drawing are classic forms of creative expression. From abstract watercolors to detailed sketches, there’s a range of possibilities for every skill level. Grab some paints or a sketchbook and start experimenting—sometimes, just putting colors on paper can be a therapeutic release.

Set aside time each week for “free drawing.” Don’t worry about the outcome; instead, focus on the joy of creating. Joining an Art Club at your campus can help give you that dedicated time towards creating and meeting others with similar interests.

Writing and Journaling

If you’ve ever felt a rush after jotting down your thoughts or dreams, you know how relaxing writing can be. Whether it’s poetry, short stories, or journaling; writing can help you explore emotions and organize your thoughts. You can even try “stream of consciousness” writing, where you write whatever comes to mind without stopping. Writing for HerCampus, like I do, is a great way to express yourself through writing!

Try keeping a gratitude journal or starting a fictional short story and adding to it each day—you might be surprised by where your creativity takes you!

Photography

Photography allows you to capture the world through your perspective, and with smartphones, anyone can become a photographer. Experiment with different settings, lighting, and angles. You can explore various genres like nature photography, street photography, or portraits to discover what excites you the most.

Go on a “photo walk” in your neighborhood, and capture moments or objects that catch your eye. Later, edit them for fun or create a mini photo album that you can keep to yourself or post online.

Dance and Movement

Dancing is a fantastic way to connect with your body, reduce stress, and express emotions. From hip-hop to salsa, ballet to freestyle, dance lets you explore different rhythms and styles. Even if you’re just dancing around your living room, it’s a form of creative expression that’s fun and liberating.

Find a playlist you love, turn up the volume, and dance like no one’s watching! Or look for online dance tutorials to learn a new style.

Cooking and Baking

Food is an art form in itself. Cooking and baking let you be creative with flavors, textures, and presentations. Trying new recipes, experimenting with ingredients, and even making colorful plating arrangements can make cooking feel like a form of creative expression.

Pick one night a week to try a new recipe or a cuisine you’ve never cooked before. Think of it as “culinary art,” and take the time to present it beautifully like you’re on The Great British Baking Show!

Crafting and DIY Projects

From knitting and sewing to woodworking and making jewelry, crafting lets you create beautiful, tangible items with your own hands. These projects can range from simple to complex, making them ideal for both beginners and those with advanced skills. They even make perfect gifts for friends and family.

Start with something simple, like creating friendship bracelets or DIY room decor. As you get more comfortable, explore bigger projects like making a piece of clothing or home accessory.

Digital Art and Graphic Design

If you love tech, digital art and graphic design might be perfect for you. Using programs like Procreate, Photoshop, or Canva, you can create everything from digital illustrations to social media graphics. With a bit of practice, you can explore creative techniques like layering, color gradients, and digital collages.

Start with a free graphic design app and make fun designs, like a poster, digital journal cover, or phone wallpaper. Experimenting with digital art can be a great way to learn new skills too!

Exploring different art forms can be a journey of self-discovery. You don’t have to be “good” at something to enjoy it—what matters is that it brings you joy. Don’t be afraid to try something new, and give yourself permission to make mistakes. Over time, you’ll discover a creative outlet that feels like the perfect fit, allowing you to express your personality and bring a sense of fulfillment into your life.

Creativity is about freedom, experimentation, and self-expression, so find what inspires you and let your imagination flow!

Kimberly is a freshman majoring in English and Education. Outside of HerCampus, Kimberly writes for the Spire and loves hanging out with her friends!