How to Make Your Art Emotive: Putting Emotion into Your Work

Have you ever looked at a piece of art and felt it in your soul, like it’s speaking directly to your heart? The power of art to connect with us emotionally is incredible. But what makes art truly emotive, and how can you, as an artist, put your own emotions into your work? Let’s chat about how to make art that resonates with feelings and how to express your emotions in a creative way!

What Makes Art Emotive?

At the heart of it, art is emotive because it captures the essence of human experience. Emotions are universal, and when an artist channels their feelings—whether it’s joy, sorrow, hope, or fear—into their work, it has the power to touch others.

What makes art emotive is often the way it connects with the viewer’s own experiences. For instance, Merab Abramishvili’s textured paste technique doesn’t just showcase physical texture—it evokes a raw, emotional depth that speaks to the viewer. You can feel the emotion behind his work without needing to read an explanation. It’s in the textures, colors, and brushstrokes that translate into emotional energy.

Another factor is the medium itself. Whether it’s through a song, a painting, or even a dance, the way you use materials can carry deep emotional resonance. When you use bold or soft colors, intense or gentle brushstrokes, it all communicates a mood, and that’s where art becomes emotive.

How Do You Put Your Emotions Into Your Art?

So, how do you actually channel your emotions into your art? How do you transform what’s inside into something that others can feel too? Here are some tips based on my own experiences and what I’ve learned along the way.

1. Start with What You’re Feeling Right Now

Sometimes, the simplest way to put emotion into your art is by starting with where you’re at emotionally in the present moment. Acknowledge how you feel—whether it's overwhelmed, at peace, or full of energy. From there, decide what medium and technique might match that emotion.

For example, if feeling calm, you might reach for soft colors and gentle strokes. But if you’re feeling a bit chaotic, you might want to work with more aggressive textures or layered paint.

2. Let the Materials Speak for You

One thing I’ve learned in my own work is how powerful the materials themselves can be in conveying emotion. Different textures, surfaces, and materials can all enhance the feeling you want to express.

In my recent paintings, I’ve used rough textures to symbolize struggle and smoother, softer textures to reflect peace. The contrast in these materials allows me to visually express internal conflicts or moments of serenity.

3. Embrace Vulnerability and Imperfection

Emotions are messy. And sometimes, our most genuine emotions come out in imperfect, unrefined ways. I’ve found that my most emotive pieces often aren’t “perfect.” It’s the vulnerability that shows through—whether that’s in the roughness of a brushstroke or the mistakes I choose to leave visible.

You know those moments when you look at a piece and think, “This isn’t finished, but it feels right”? That’s where the emotion shines through! Be ok with the messiness. It’s often those unpolished, raw moments that speak the loudest.

4. Use Your Art to Tell a Story

Art is a great medium for storytelling, and emotions are at the core of any great narrative. If you’re telling a story of joy, sadness, or transformation, think about how you can use your art to reflect those emotional arcs. For instance, if you want to explore the theme of peace through waiting and longing the brushstrokes could be softer, and allow colors to gradually transition, much like the slow unfolding of inner peace.

Even when creating art that’s more abstract, allowing your emotions to guide the “story” can deepen the impact of your work. Art that tells a story, even without words, becomes more than just an image—it becomes an experience.

5. Experiment and Step Out of Your Comfort Zone

The best way to make your art more emotive might just be by trying something new. Stepping out of your comfort zone can open emotions you didn’t realize were there. I remember when I first began experimenting with different mediums, like tempera and gesso. I was a little uncertain at first, but pushing through that doubt and experimenting led me to express emotions I hadn’t known how to put into my previous work.

Art is such a powerful way to express and connect with emotions. When you’re honest with yourself about what you’re feeling, use materials that match that energy, and allow yourself to be vulnerable. And the more you practice, the more you’ll find new ways to tap into and share those feelings with the world.

So, what about you? How do you bring emotion into your art? Let’s talk about it in the comments—I’d love to hear your experiences!