Traveling can be fun, but it’s not always the most enjoyable experience. You might have to put up with overpriced flights, unpredictable weather, and the occasional jet lag. However, you can still make your travels more enjoyable using art. Here are some ideas to use art to make your trips more enjoyable.
Draw Pictures of Your Favorite Places
Drawing pictures of your favorite places is a great way to explore them in detail without ever leaving home. Plus, they’re an excellent souvenir that won’t take up any extra room in your suitcase or weigh down your carry-on bag too much (bring plenty of paper).
Sketch What You See on Your Travels
If you’re anything like me, you’ll probably be spending a lot of time staring out the window of your plane, bus, train, or car. Don’t just sit there — use the time to sketch what you see. You can either go traditional or try using an app like Procreate on your iPad-it’s pretty close to being the real thing.
Listen to Music from the Place You’re Visiting
When you’re traveling, it can be fun to listen to music from the place you’re visiting. This is a great way to get into the spirit of things and feel like you’re there. Plus, if you happen to know any of the lyrics, you can sing along. You can check out the traditional sounds of the country on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Read a Book That Takes Place in the Place You’re Visiting
Another great way to get into the spirit of things while traveling is by reading a book that takes place in the place you’re visiting. This is especially fun if it’s set during one of the major events of the country’s history. A good example would be Katherine Howe’s The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane, set during the infamous Salem witch trials.
Peruse a Travel Guide and Map
Collect travel guides and maps from every place you visit to create your very own library or map case. You can even collect postcards, ticket stubs, and other little souvenirs to go along with them. Not only will this be a fun way to remember your travels, but it can also be a great source of information for your next trip.
Check Out a City’s Art Scene
Not every country has a thriving art scene, but many of the world’s most beautiful cities have amazing museums and galleries to offer. Some places have free admission on certain days of the week, so be sure to check it out before you leave.
Find Your Own Unique Style
When you travel, it’s an excellent opportunity to experiment with new styles and techniques. Try out a new medium, take some classes while you’re away, or explore the different art shops in the city you’re visiting. Who knows, you might even find your new favorite art style.
Find Local Artists
When you’re traveling, it’s always a good idea to support local artists. Not only is it a nice gesture, but you’ll also usually end up with some unique souvenirs that way. Check out local art galleries and museums to find the best pieces by the most talented locals in your destination city.
Experience Live Performances
If you’re looking for a truly immersive art experience, try checking out a live performance. Whether it’s a play, a concert, or even just a street performance, there’s nothing quite like seeing art come to life right in front of your eyes. You can go see something at a local performing arts theater or, if you’re feeling more adventurous, try looking for something underground or off the beaten path. Just remember not to disturb the audience or block anyone’s view.
Make Art of Your Memories
One of the best things about traveling is making memories that you’ll never forget. Why not turn those memories into art? You can use any medium you want, from traditional painting and drawing to photography, scrapbooking, or even stitching. Leave a memory by using any medium to make art of it.
Hang Your Art Around Your Home
Once your trip is over, either because you’ve returned home or you’ve moved on to the next destination, don’t forget about your travel-themed art. Hang it up around your house to remind yourself of all the great things you saw and did while exploring that place. And remember: no matter where you go, there will always be fantastic art to see.
You can find inspiration, learn new techniques and mediums, explore other cultures through art at galleries and museums, or even make your own souvenirs from memories during your travels. And don’t forget that you’ll always have the opportunity to experience live performances in every country.
