15 Ways To Create Calming Art (Feel Inner Peace)

Calming art has gained popularity as a way to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Many people turn to visual art forms like painting, sculpture, and photography to find peace and tranquility in their daily lives.

These artistic creations can have a soothing effect on the mind and body, helping viewers feel more at ease.

Artists who focus on calming themes often use soft colors, gentle shapes, and natural subjects in their work. They may draw inspiration from landscapes, seascapes, or abstract designs that evoke feelings of calmness and serenity.

Calming art can be found in homes, offices, and public spaces, providing a visual escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

1) Claude Monet’s ‘Water Lilies’

Claude Monet painted his famous ‘Water Lilies’ series over three decades. These works show the pond and flowers at his home in Giverny, France.

Monet created about 250 oil paintings of water lilies. He began the series in 1896 and continued until his death in 1926.

The paintings feature soft colors and blurred edges. This style gives them a dreamy, peaceful quality. Monet focused on capturing light and reflections on the water’s surface.

Many of the ‘Water Lilies’ paintings are large. Some take up entire walls in museums. This size helps viewers feel like they’re standing at the edge of Monet’s pond.

Monet’s eyesight got worse as he aged. But he kept painting water lilies even when he had cataracts. This led to changes in how he used color in his later works.

The ‘Water Lilies’ series is now seen as a key part of Impressionist art. These paintings show Monet’s skill at capturing nature’s beauty and calming effects.

2) Vincent van Gogh’s ‘Starry Night’

Vincent van Gogh painted ‘Starry Night’ in 1889. He created this masterpiece while staying at a mental hospital in France. The painting shows a night sky filled with swirling clouds and bright stars.

A small village sits below the sky, with a tall church spire standing out. The scene mixes real and imagined elements. Van Gogh based it on the view from his hospital window, but added his own artistic touches.

The painting’s bold colors and curved brushstrokes create a sense of movement. This style reflects Van Gogh’s emotional state at the time. Blues and yellows dominate the artwork, giving it a dreamy quality.

‘Starry Night’ has become one of Van Gogh’s most famous works. Many people find it calming to look at. The painting’s swirling patterns and night sky often make viewers feel peaceful.

Art experts have studied ‘Starry Night’ for years. They see it as a window into Van Gogh’s mind. The artwork shows how he saw the world in a unique way.

3) Georgia O’Keeffe’s ‘Blue and Green Music’

Georgia O’Keeffe painted ‘Blue and Green Music’ in 1919. This artwork shows her skill in using color and shape to create a calm feeling.

The painting features soft, curved shapes in shades of blue and green. These colors blend together smoothly, creating a peaceful mood.

O’Keeffe drew inspiration from music for this piece. She tried to capture the way music flows and moves through the air.

The gentle curves in the painting remind viewers of musical notes or sound waves. This gives the artwork a sense of rhythm and movement.

Many people find ‘Blue and Green Music’ relaxing to look at. The cool colors and smooth lines can help reduce stress and promote calmness.

O’Keeffe’s use of abstract forms allows viewers to interpret the painting in their own way. This can lead to a meditative experience while observing the artwork.

The painting is now part of the Art Institute of Chicago’s collection. It continues to be admired for its soothing qualities and unique approach to visualizing music.

4) James Abbott McNeill Whistler’s ‘Nocturne in Blue and Silver’

James Abbott McNeill Whistler painted ‘Nocturne in Blue and Silver’ in 1871. This artwork shows a calm nighttime scene of the Thames River in London.

The painting uses soft blue and silver tones to create a peaceful mood. Whistler focused on the way light and color look at night, rather than showing clear details.

In the painting, viewers can see the faint outline of a bridge and some boats on the water. The sky and river blend together, making it hard to tell where one ends and the other begins.

Whistler named many of his night scenes “nocturnes” after musical pieces. He wanted people to think about how art could be like music, creating feelings without telling a story.

This painting was part of a group of works that changed how people thought about art. Some critics didn’t like it at first because it was so different from traditional paintings.

Today, ‘Nocturne in Blue and Silver’ is seen as an important piece of art. It helps people feel calm by showing a quiet, dreamy view of nighttime.

5) Edward Hopper’s ‘Sun in an Empty Room’

Edward Hopper painted ‘Sun in an Empty Room’ in 1963. This artwork shows a bare room with sunlight streaming through a window. The room has no furniture or people, creating a quiet and peaceful feeling.

The painting uses simple shapes and colors. Hopper chose a limited palette of warm yellows, soft blues, and muted grays. These colors work together to make the space feel calm and still.

Light plays a big role in this piece. The sunlight creates long shadows and bright patches on the walls and floor. This light gives the room a sense of warmth and life, even though it’s empty.

Many people find this painting relaxing to look at. The bare room and soft light can help viewers feel less stressed. It gives them a chance to imagine their own stories about the space.

Hopper’s style in this work is known for its simplicity. He didn’t add many details, letting viewers focus on the mood instead. This approach helps make the painting a good example of calming art.

6) Henri Matisse’s ‘Dance’

Henri Matisse created the famous painting ‘Dance’ in 1909. The artwork shows five nude figures dancing in a circle against a simple blue and green background.

The dancers’ bodies are painted in a vibrant orange-red color. Their forms are simplified and stylized, with flowing lines that suggest movement.

Matisse used bold, flat areas of color to create a sense of energy and rhythm. The painting has a joyful, carefree feeling that many viewers find uplifting.

‘Dance’ is considered one of Matisse’s masterpieces. It represents a key moment in the development of modern art in the early 20th century.

The circular composition and harmonious colors can have a calming effect. At the same time, the lively poses of the figures convey a sense of freedom and happiness.

Matisse was inspired by folk dances he saw in the south of France. He wanted to capture the spirit of these traditional celebrations in a modern style.

Today, ‘Dance’ is displayed at the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia. It continues to be admired for its bold simplicity and emotional impact.

7) Johannes Vermeer’s ‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’

Johannes Vermeer painted ‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’ around 1665. This artwork is one of the most famous Dutch Golden Age paintings.

The piece shows a young woman in exotic dress, looking over her shoulder at the viewer. She wears a blue and yellow turban and a large pearl earring.

Vermeer’s use of light and shadow creates a calm, peaceful mood. The girl’s gaze is direct yet soft, drawing viewers in.

The painting’s simple background lets the girl’s face stand out. Vermeer used smooth brushstrokes and a limited color palette to achieve this effect.

Art experts praise the work for its realism and emotional depth. The girl’s identity remains unknown, adding to the painting’s mystery.

‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’ hangs in the Mauritshuis museum in The Hague, Netherlands. It attracts many visitors who want to see its beauty up close.

The artwork has inspired books, movies, and other creative works. Its enduring appeal shows how it continues to captivate people centuries after it was made.

8) Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s ‘Luncheon of the Boating Party’

Pierre-Auguste Renoir painted ‘Luncheon of the Boating Party’ in 1880-1881. This large oil painting shows a group of people relaxing on a balcony by the Seine river.

The scene is full of light and color. Renoir used bright blues, reds, and whites to create a cheerful mood. The painting captures a happy moment among friends on a sunny day.

There are 14 figures in the painting. Some are sitting at a table with food and drinks. Others are standing or leaning on the balcony railing. The people seem to be enjoying each other’s company.

Renoir included some of his friends as models in the painting. The woman playing with the dog is thought to be his future wife, Aline Charigot.

The painting shows Renoir’s skill at depicting light and human figures. He captured the way sunlight filters through the awning and reflects off surfaces.

‘Luncheon of the Boating Party’ is now in the Phillips Collection in Washington, D.C. It is one of Renoir’s most famous works and a prime example of Impressionist art.

9) Wassily Kandinsky’s ‘Composition VIII’

Wassily Kandinsky created ‘Composition VIII’ in 1923. This abstract painting uses shapes and colors to create a sense of calm.

The artwork features circles, triangles, and lines. These elements are arranged in a balanced way across the canvas.

Kandinsky chose soft colors like light blue, pink, and yellow. He also used some darker shades to create contrast.

The painting has no clear focal point. This allows the viewer’s eye to move freely around the image.

Many people find ‘Composition VIII’ soothing to look at. The gentle curves and harmonious colors can help reduce stress.

Kandinsky believed that abstract art could express emotions. He thought that shapes and colors could affect people’s feelings.

‘Composition VIII’ is part of Kandinsky’s later work. During this time, he focused on creating art that was completely non-representational.

The painting is now housed in the Guggenheim Museum in New York City. It continues to inspire viewers with its calming qualities.

10) Gustav Klimt’s ‘The Kiss’

Gustav Klimt painted ‘The Kiss’ in 1908. It shows a couple embracing, wrapped in golden robes. The painting is known for its soothing and romantic qualities.

Klimt used lots of gold leaf in this artwork. This gives it a warm, glowing look. The gold also makes the painting feel special and valuable.

The couple in the painting seem lost in their own world. Their faces are calm and peaceful. This helps viewers feel relaxed when looking at the artwork.

The background is simple, with soft colors. This keeps the focus on the embracing couple. It also adds to the calm mood of the painting.

‘The Kiss’ is part of Klimt’s “Golden Period.” During this time, he often used gold in his paintings. This style became very popular and well-known.

Many people find this painting calming because of its soft lines and warm colors. The intimate scene also creates a sense of comfort and safety for viewers.

11) Caspar David Friedrich’s ‘Wanderer Above the Sea of Fog’

Caspar David Friedrich painted “Wanderer Above the Sea of Fog” in 1818. This artwork is a prime example of German Romantic painting.

The painting shows a man standing on a rocky outcrop. He faces away from the viewer, looking out over a misty landscape.

Mountains and trees peek through the fog below. The man wears a dark green coat and holds a walking stick.

This piece is known for its calming effect on viewers. The foggy scene creates a sense of mystery and wonder.

Many see the painting as a metaphor for life’s journey. The lone figure represents human contemplation of nature’s vastness.

The muted colors and soft edges of the fog add to the peaceful mood. Viewers often feel a mix of awe and serenity when looking at this work.

Friedrich’s painting invites people to pause and reflect. It encourages a moment of quiet thought in a busy world.

The artwork hangs in the Kunsthalle Hamburg museum in Germany. It continues to inspire and soothe viewers over 200 years after its creation.

12) Marc Chagall’s ‘Over the Town’

Marc Chagall’s ‘Over the Town’ is a famous painting that creates a calm and dreamy atmosphere. The artwork shows two people floating above a village.

The main figures are a man and woman who appear to be flying together. They seem happy and peaceful as they soar through the sky.

Below them, a small town is visible with colorful houses and buildings. The scene has a magical quality that makes viewers feel light and carefree.

Chagall used soft colors and flowing lines to give the painting a gentle, soothing feel. Blues and greens dominate the picture, adding to its tranquil mood.

The floating couple represents love and freedom. Their joyful flight over the town below suggests escaping everyday worries and finding peace.

Many people find this painting relaxing to look at. Its dreamlike quality and optimistic theme can help reduce stress and inspire positive thoughts.

‘Over the Town’ is a good example of how art can create feelings of calm and happiness. It invites viewers to imagine themselves floating freely above their cares.

13) Edvard Munch’s ‘The Sun’

Edvard Munch painted ‘The Sun’ in 1909. This artwork shows a large, bright sun over a calm sea. The sun’s rays spread across the sky in vibrant colors.

Munch created this piece during a happier time in his life. He had just returned from treatment for anxiety and alcohol issues. The painting reflects his improved state of mind.

‘The Sun’ uses warm colors like yellow, orange, and red. These colors can make viewers feel peaceful and hopeful. The simple design focuses on the sun as the main subject.

Many people find this painting soothing. The steady presence of the sun over the water creates a sense of calm. It reminds viewers of sunny days and beautiful sunsets.

Munch painted several versions of ‘The Sun’ between 1909 and 1916. The image became a key part of his work in later years. It shows a shift from his earlier, darker themes to more positive subjects.

‘The Sun’ hangs in the Munch Museum in Oslo, Norway. Visitors can see its calming effect in person. The large size of the painting adds to its impact.

14) Yayoi Kusama’s ‘Infinity Mirrored Room’

Yayoi Kusama’s ‘Infinity Mirrored Room’ is a captivating art installation. It uses mirrors and lights to create a sense of endless space.

Visitors step into a small room filled with twinkling lights. The walls, floor, and ceiling are covered in mirrors. This creates the illusion of infinite space.

The lights change color and intensity. They seem to float in the darkness. The effect is dreamlike and mesmerizing.

Kusama first created this type of installation in the 1960s. She continues to make new versions today. Each room is slightly different.

The ‘Infinity Mirrored Room’ offers a peaceful experience. Many people find it calming and relaxing. It allows viewers to escape the outside world for a moment.

Museums around the world have shown Kusama’s mirrored rooms. They often have long lines of people waiting to enter. Each person usually gets about a minute inside.

The installation invites reflection and introspection. It can make viewers feel small in a vast universe. At the same time, it can create a sense of wonder and awe.

15) Rene Magritte’s ‘The Son of Man’

Rene Magritte painted ‘The Son of Man’ in 1964. This famous surrealist work shows a man in a suit and bowler hat. A green apple floats in front of his face, hiding most of it from view.

The painting’s simple composition and muted colors create a calm atmosphere. The man stands still against a plain background of sea and sky. This adds to the peaceful feeling of the artwork.

Many people find the image soothing despite its odd elements. The floating apple gives a sense of lightness and whimsy. The man’s proper clothing contrasts with the magical apple in an interesting way.

Magritte often used everyday objects in unexpected ways in his art. This approach can make viewers see familiar things differently. It may help people step back from their usual thoughts and feel more relaxed.

The hidden face in the painting also sparks curiosity. This gentle mystery can be calming for some viewers. It invites them to use their imagination without being too challenging.

Understanding Calming Art

Calming art helps people feel relaxed and peaceful. It uses specific colors, shapes, and themes to create a soothing effect on viewers.

What Is Calming Art?

Calming art aims to bring a sense of peace and quiet to spaces. It often features soft colors like blues, greens, and pastels. These hues are known to have a calming effect on the mind.

Nature scenes are common in calming art. Landscapes, seascapes, and forests can make people feel more connected to the outdoors. This connection helps reduce stress.

Abstract art can also be calming. Simple shapes and flowing lines create a sense of order and balance. This can help quiet a busy mind.

Calming art isn’t limited to paintings. It can include sculptures, photographs, and digital art too. The key is that the artwork makes the viewer feel at ease.

The Science Behind Calming Art

Research shows that looking at calming art can lower stress levels. It does this by affecting brain activity and body functions.

Viewing peaceful scenes can slow heart rate and breathing. This helps the body relax and feel less tense.

Colors play a big role in how art affects us. Blue is linked to feelings of calm and trust. Green can make people feel refreshed and balanced.

Brain scans reveal that calming art activates areas linked to pleasure and relaxation. This can lead to improved mood and less anxiety.

Studies have found that calming art in hospitals can speed up healing. Patients who see nature scenes often need less pain medicine and recover faster.

Benefits Of Calming Art

Calming art can boost mental health and help people focus better. It offers ways to relax and be more productive.

Emotional and Mental Health

Calming art can lower stress and anxiety. It gives people a break from daily worries. Looking at peaceful images or making art can calm the mind. This can lead to better sleep and mood.

Art can also help express feelings. People who can’t say how they feel might draw or paint instead. This can be healing for those dealing with tough emotions.

Calming art spaces can make people feel safe. Hospitals and schools use art to create soothing areas. These spaces can help patients heal faster and students learn better.

Improving Focus and Productivity

Calming art can sharpen the mind. It helps people pay attention and think clearly.

This can boost work and school performance.

Art breaks can refresh the brain. Taking time to look at or make art can lead to new ideas.

Many offices now have art to inspire workers.

Coloring or drawing can improve hand-eye teamwork. This skill helps in many jobs and daily tasks.

Art can also teach patience, which is key for solving problems.

Art viewing can train the eye to notice details. This skill is useful in many fields, from science to design.

It can help people spot patterns and solve puzzles faster.