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Artist Anahi DeCanio: Why Creativity Matters More Than Ever
Drawing on research into creativity and the brain, DeCanio explores how creating — and experiencing — art supports wellness and shapes how we engage with AI.
Creativity is having a moment — and award-winning artist and entrepreneur Anahi DeCanio says there’s a reason why.
“If you are leaving creativity out of your résumé or your daily life, you are missing out,” she says.
At Luminary — a Manhattan-based platform for women in business and entrepreneurs seeking community, support and growth — DeCanio delivers that message to a packed room.
Surrounded by abstract paintings, collage materials and scientific research, she makes a compelling case: creativity isn’t just expressive — it’s essential.
The Science Behind Creativity
DeCanio points to a growing body of research showing that both creating and experiencing art can positively affect brain health and overall well-being.
That includes drawing, painting, listening to music, dancing — even simply looking at art.
“It’s not woo-woo,” she says. “This is neuroaesthetics — a field that looks at how art and creativity affect our mental health, our bodies and our behavior.”
Research shows art and beauty can activate the brain’s reward systems, reduce stress and enhance well-being. Some studies even suggest a link to longevity.
Universities, including Stanford, are now incorporating creative practices into programs designed to reduce stress and anxiety.
Creativity as Healing
For DeCanio, the research is personal.
A former Wall Street executive and lifelong entrepreneur, she says creativity has long connected the dots in her life — but it became essential during periods of profound loss and health challenges.
“I’ve experienced trauma — the loss of a child, a brain cyst diagnosis,” she says. “That pushed me to understand how our brains work — what creates joy, what leads to burnout.”
She tried everything — therapy, meditation and even, as she puts it, “Tony Robbins fire-walking.”
But the biggest shift came somewhere simpler.
“The one place I could disconnect was when I was one with the canvas,” she says.
That practice doesn’t require being an artist.
“It can be a piece of paper, music, a concert,” she says. “If you make space for it, it can change how you feel.”
The Power of Practice
During the session, participants are encouraged to pick up markers and start drawing — no experience required.
Referencing Indigenous mural traditions that layer over imagery rather than erase it, DeCanio frames creativity as a way to process — not discard — the past.
“Don’t say you’re not creative,” she says. “There’s no such thing as a bad doodle.”
Participants reflect on past experiences, translate those thoughts onto paper and then write future goals on small tags, later incorporated into a collective piece.
“Where we put our attention, we are shaping our brain,” she says. “It’s not about the outcome — it’s about the process.”
Environment Matters
Creativity isn’t limited to traditional art.
DeCanio points to everyday activities — gardening, cleaning, working with your hands — as ways to shift mental patterns and regain a sense of control.
“Our environments affect us more than we realize,” she says.
At the core of her message: reclaim your attention — and step away, even briefly, from constant digital distraction.
The Art of Beholding
Experiencing art can be just as powerful as creating it.
Research shows that viewing art in person can increase dopamine and blood flow, producing responses similar to falling in love.
“Studies show there is something different about seeing original art work,” she says.
She also points to a growing movement in health care — particularly in Europe — where art is being integrated into treatment environments, with studies showing improved recovery times.
Creativity in the Age of AI
As AI becomes more embedded in daily life, DeCanio argues creativity is becoming more — not less — important.
“Creativity helps us direct AI,” she says. “It helps us think differently and not just accept the first result.”
Rather than operating on autopilot, she encourages using intuition and imagination to refine outputs.
“There’s something about pen to paper that helps us retain more and think more deeply,” she says.
A Daily Creative Habit
DeCanio’s “20ADay” practice is grounded in research showing that just 20 minutes of creative activity a day can significantly lower cortisol levels.
That finding became the foundation of her approach — a simple, consistent way to build creativity into everyday life.
“It’s not about hours,” she says. “It’s about consistency.”
Why It Matters Now
In a time defined by stress, burnout and constant input, creativity is more than an outlet — it’s a tool.
“Art is how we express ourselves — in whatever way that means for you,” she says. “Don’t judge it. Just do it.”
Because beyond expression, she argues, creativity is essential to maintaining a healthy brain — and a more engaged, intentional life.
Anahi DeCanio will be part of a group exhibition Aug. 15 thru Sept. 13, 2026 at the William Ris Gallery in Jamesport. For more information, visit 20aday.com and anahidecanio.com.
