Want to be more creative this year? Here are some Atlanta art classes

Finding a creative outlet can come with a number of health benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, experts say.

In an interview with NPR, Girija Kaimal said her research had found that making art activated a reward pathway in the brain, which is “perceived as a pleasurable experience.”

That’s why Kaimal, a professor at Drexel University and a leading researcher in art therapy, said she encourages everyone to find some sort of way to express creativity.

ExploreLocal artists breathe new life into Atlanta Beltline with Baby Yoda mural

"Anything that engages your creative mind — the ability to make connections between unrelated things and imagine new ways to communicate — is good for you," Kaimal told NPR.

She stressed the importance of not getting hung up on perfection and instead just creating something — whether it’s painting, writing or even sewing.

If you’re looking to engage with your inner artist this year, there are a number of places to take a class in metro Atlanta.

ExploreArt scene south of the city is booming

Spruill Center for the Arts

5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Atlanta. 770-394-3447. www.spruillarts.org

Decatur Glassblowing

250 Freeman St., Decatur. 404-849-0301. www.decaturglassblowing.com

Callanwolde Fine Arts Center

980 Briarcliff Road NE, Atlanta. 404-872-5338. https://callanwolde.org/

Johns Creek Arts Center

6290 Abbotts Bridge Road, Building 700, Johns Creek. 770-623-8448. www.johnscreekarts.org

Paint Sip Socialize

259 Glenwood Ave SE Suite A, Atlanta. 770-318-2755. www.paintsipsocialize.com

How a New Yorker became the official artist for Atlanta’s MLB All-Star Game

Since 2003, Charles Fazzino has been selected by the MLB to commemorate the All-Star Game. He noted that Atlanta has “a lot to draw,” which helped form his creative vision.