If you had told me a year ago that the newest fad would be adult coloring, I would have laughed at you. I mean, really? Like so many critics of the movement, I would have called this activity childish and ridiculous. Then, on a whim trip to Michael’s, I hovered around the adult coloring book display mystified by the designs, subjects and shear number of books. Of course I bought one!
It sat on the floor of my craft room for about a month, temporarily forgotten under piles of preschool art projects waiting to be filed away. Then, on a particularly stressful day of tantrums, I pulled it out colored in my coloring book. Now, to be fair, I’m a rather crafty lady and can be easily delighted by printed paper and patterned tape (um, I have a CRAFT ROOM), but even I was surprised at how coloring a page full of flowers calmed me down. I was hooked.
It should come as no surprise that art is therapeutic. It improves self-esteem, increases awareness and helps remedy trauma of all kinds through creativity. You don’t have to be an artist to participate. Even for the more skilled artist, coloring offers relief from having to come up with an original idea – the worry of the blank canvas. The lines are provided, you just need to choose colors and color within the lines, though I guess an abstract version isn’t out of the question if it helps you relax.
No matter what subject matter you like, you can find a coloring book to suit your needs and interests: nature, fantasy, architecture, hidden four-letter words, and of course the ADULT adult coloring books. Michael’s actually began selling a Harry Potter-themed book last month. Apparently the most effective style for relaxation, especially in combination with meditation, seems to be mandalas. Simply put, mandalas are circles of all shapes and sizes. Some are embellished with lavish designs, while others are simple. Either way, just add color.
I haven’t attended a formal coloring event yet, but they are popping up all over the place. I’m even thinking of setting one up as a fundraiser for a cause I support. These events range from minimal cost to free. Some offer food and drink, while others are bring your own. Here are some adult coloring events in Fairfield County in the near future:
1. Coloring Night with Byrd’s Books at Spark Arts in Bethel: February 19, March 11, and April 8 from 6:30-9pm. Snacks will be available, but B.Y.O. Beverage – $15, registration needed.
2. Zen Coloring for Adults at Edith Wheeler Memorial Library: February 21 from 1-3pm, registration is required.
3. Burnt Sienna Sundays Adult Coloring at the Fairfield Woods Branch Public Library: Sundays, January 10–May 22 from 1-5pm. It is a drop-in program.
4. Color Your World: Adult Coloring at the Brookfield Library. February 25, 2 -4pm and 6:30-8:30pm. This is a free event, but you need to be over the age of 18, registration is not required, but appreciated.
5. Adult Coloring Workshop at the Bridgeport Public Main Library-Burroughs & Saden. February 25, 12-1:15pm. Free coffee and cookies will be served at this drop-in program.
Make a girl’s night out of it. Go to Target or Michael’s, or just about anywhere, and buy a coloring book or two. Then raid your kids’ colored pencils and markers (or crayons if you think your guests would prefer them). Buy some wine and snacks. Have a ball.
Have you tried it yet? Do you know of any other adult coloring events in Fairfield County?
