Why Subscribe to The Art & the Calm?

I learned art from leading national illustrators of cover art such as Time, Newsweek, and Rolling Stone magazines, and I’ve always wanted to share my extensive knowledge. Having taught in my local community, I feel the call to reach a larger audience. Each art-specific class I took ranged from $1200 to thousands of dollars for in-person, multi-week sessions. One can choose to be self-taught, but education is vital to explore all of the knowledge needed to make great art.

After investing in high-quality art education off and on since 2002, I finally get to give back!

My other passion is studying neuroscience and breaking down complicated theories and practices into manageable, bite-sized steps people can take to feel better.* As the published author of an art and wellness book, I want to share more of what I have learned.

Art history professors, interior designers, and even those who have won prestigious commissions for the United States postal stamps have personally taught me! How cool would it be to share art-specific knowledge with so many who want to learn?

Art making begins in the mind…

If you can’t quiet the critical voices and dig deep into vast creative resources, art-making remains burdensome.

*Currently, there is a staggering amount of adult Americans (58%) struggling with depression & anxiety.

What to Expect:

For free subscribers:

  • Posts will contain interesting and beneficial information on art history and neuroscience twice a month.

  • A written assignment for you to try on your own! (Don’t worry about any pressure; the newsletter will post on the second and fourth Friday of the month, allowing you time to focus and create.)

For paid subscribers:

  • A full video tutorial on the concept is provided to help you learn and embrace it before the assignment is given.

  • With Friday at 3:00 pm (CST) release, this is a convenient time for you to watch the tutorial and complete the assignment.

  • For those who want to participate in the monthly giveaway, submit both assigned artworks to be entered into the first-of-the-month drawing!

  • Remember, this is about cultivating calm and creativity.

Subscribe for free to enjoy tidbits on art history, straightforward brain science, and creative insights.

For just $7 a month, unlock exclusive video art tutorials crafted to help you explore art, enhance creativity, and find tranquility—regardless of your budget.

Let’s create something beautiful together!

About me:

I believe the world needs less politics and less infringing on our own personal beliefs, such as religion and other sensitive topics. I am a practicing Catholic, but I will keep my beliefs to myself and focus only on sharing a lifetime of experience, knowledge, and art-making best practices.

There is a tradition in the recovery field that helps to keep millions of its members focused on the primary purpose of helping others: The 10th tradition states that "… has no opinion on outside issues; hence the name ought never to be drawn into public controversy," emphasizing the importance of maintaining a neutral stance on political, religious, or other matters.

Therefore, I promise to focus only on art and the beneficial aspects of neuroscience to help you experience more joy.

Jackie

Ink Self-portrait 2025

Side note: I cannot guarantee any specific results, as each individual's dedication and effort are their own. I promise to share a wealth of knowledge and tips in a fun, energetic environment. I hope you join!

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Subscribe to The Art & The Calm

From an award-winning artist, The Art & the Calm offers art history, brain facts to boost happiness and calmness, and video tutorials for subscribers.

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