5 Artists You Didn't Know Were Left-Handed

Discover why left-handed people tend to be more creative. Meet famous left-handed artists who have left their mark on the art world.

Left Handers Day is an international day observed annually on August 13 to celebrate the uniqueness and differences of left-handed individuals. It was first observed in 1976 by Dean R. Campbell, founder of Lefthanders International, Inc. The day aims to raise awareness of the advantages and disadvantages of being left-handed in a predominantly right-handed world.

To celebrate Left-Handers day in 2023, we wanted to highlight some of the most interesting facts about left-handed individuals and take a look at five left-handed artists who have helped shape the creative world of today.

Approximately 10% of the world's population is left-handed. Throughout history, left-handers have often been considered unusual or even frowned upon in some cultures, however it is also believed they are more creative. Here are some interesting facts that might lead to left-handers being more creative.

Cerebral dominance

Cerebral dominance has been found to be related to the dominant hand. In the case of left-handers, it is believed that they are more likely to have greater right-brain dominance, which is associated with creative and artistic abilities.

Greater neural diversity

It has been suggested that left-handers have greater neural diversity compared to right-handers. This could be an advantage in terms of information processing and creative problem solving, as your brain could be better able to deal with different perspectives and approaches.

Cognitive flexibility

Lefties have been found to have greater cognitive flexibility, allowing them to think in more divergent and original ways. This cognitive flexibility can be a strong foundation for creativity, allowing them to find new connections and solutions to problems.

Adjusting to a world designed for right-handers

Lefties often have to adjust to a world designed primarily for right-handers. This adaptability and the need to find alternative solutions can foster a creative mindset and a greater ability to find new ways of approaching everyday situations.

While creativity is certainly not limited exclusively to left-handers, continuing with our theme of celebration, let’s take a look at some of the most influential and famous left-handers of the art world.

1. Leonardo da Vinci:
The renowned Italian painter, sculptor, and inventor, Leonardo da Vinci, was left-handed. He is known for such masterpieces as "The Last Supper" and "The Mona Lisa."

2. Michelangelo:
Another great Italian artist of the Renaissance, Michelangelo Buonarroti, was also left-handed. His famous works include the ceiling painting of the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican and the sculpture of David.

3. Pablo Picasso:
The influential Spanish painter and sculptor, Pablo Picasso, was left-handed. He is known for being one of the founders of the cubist movement and for his revolutionary and avant-garde works.

4. Frida Kahlo:
The iconic Mexican painter Frida Kahlo was left-handed. Her paintings, which often explore themes of identity, pain, and femininity, have left a significant mark on the art world.

5. Jimi Hendrix:
Legendary rock guitarist and singer Jimi Hendrix was left-handed. He is considered one of the greatest guitarists of all time and has left a profound influence on rock music and art.

You may also like to explore the following courses and articles:

- Check out the full range of creativity courses from Domestika here.

- 20 genius artists with a needle and thread as a tool

- Books on creativity you can read