Gel printing is good for your health

 In recent years, creative practices have become increasingly recognised for their role in supporting mental health. Among these practices,  gel printing — a playful and versatile form of mono-printing using a gel plate—has gained popularity not only for its artistic possibilities but also for the therapeutic benefits it offers. Unlike traditional printmaking, Gel printing requires minimal equipment and expertise, making it accessible to beginners and seasoned artists alike. Beyond creating vibrant textures and layers, the process can nurture emotional well-being in powerful ways.

The tactile nature of rolling paint, placing stencils, and pulling prints from the gel plate invites us to fully engage in the moment. Much like meditation, Gel printing draws attention away from rumination and into the present. The rhythmic actions—rolling, layering, lifting—can help calm the nervous system and promote a sense of flow, where worries temporarily fade.
Unlike traditional art forms that may feel intimidating, gel printing is inherently experimental. Every print is unique, often unpredictable, and sometimes delightfully surprising. This playful quality reduces the pressure to create something “perfect” and instead emphasises exploration. Engaging in low-stakes play has been shown to lower cortisol levels and alleviate stress, making Gel printing a valuable outlet for relaxation.

I personally find that the unexpected results give me the most pleasure. The fact that some prints doesn't turn out well reminds me that life is full of the unexpected. Not every day is a good day. Not everyone is nice. Few people are in tip top healthy all the time. So we have ups and downs, good and bad days, happiness and sadness. But artistic and creative persuits are good for the mind and body. 

Below are two prints to illustrate my good and poor results. The blue print I made with cut out stencils and I limited my colour palette. I was really happy with the result. The second pink and black was made using a photo transfer using cut up magazines. Then the final print pulled with a pink mix. It's  not great is it?  But hey thats life. Some things work and some don't. I try to learn from my mistakes or from something that went wrong. For me, it's  not a wasted print, it's  a learning process. I get so much value from the creative process that it's  not time wasted or paint wasted. No, quite the opposite, it's time well spent doing something I enjoy and I feel relaxed and calm after I've been printing. 
Do you feel the same? Does being creative have a calming effect for you? Do you find yourself in a better mental state during or after your time spent in your art studio? 
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Location: France

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