Making for the sake of Making

When we think of visual art, we often imagine an ancient or permanent object— but what if we embraced impermanence instead? Perhaps we could focus on creativity, joy, and connection, rather than being weighed down by the need for lasting recognition.

The obsession with permanence is often tied to the ego’s desire to leave a legacy and prove that what we’ve created matters, but impermanence invites freedom. When we let go of the pressure to achieve perfection, we can take risks and experiment.

This is especially true for children, whose art-making should focus on process rather than outcome. When kids are encouraged to play with materials, explore textures, and embrace “messy” creativity, they develop confidence and problem-solving skills. A child scribbling in chalk on the sidewalk or building a tower of blocks knows instinctively that the act of creating is what matters.

By embracing impermanence, we shift the focus from legacy to presence. Art becomes about being in the moment, connecting with the world, and expressing ourselves freely. Whether it’s a child joyfully splattering paint or an adult crafting something ephemeral, impermanent art reminds us that its value isn’t in how long it lasts, but in how it makes us feel right now.