An Explosion of Color

Once solely found in the domain of youngsters, coloring books, colored pencils and crayons have been elevated from child’s play to grown-up fun.

Once solely found in the domain of youngsters, coloring books, colored pencils and crayons have been elevated from child’s play to grown-up fun. The burgeoning adult coloring craze has hit Bergen County—clubs and groups meet regularly at libraries in Emerson and Hackensack, for example, where people of all ages show off their creativity while staying within the lines.

So why the sudden explosion?

“It helps people mentally and can improve one’s memory and focus,” says Christina DeMarco, R.N., clinical and administrative director of The Wilson Kaplen Infusion Center at Englewood Hospital and Medical Center. The center promotes coloring as art therapy for patients, including those with cancer. “People can work through their anxieties and stress by coloring while being creative.

”If you haven’t seen one yet, adult coloring books aren’t filled with black-and-white sketches of ninja turtles, unicorns or cartoon characters (though those certainly aren’t restricted to kids). Grown-up coloring books, calendars and posters often consist of intricate designs, landscapes, cityscapes and more.

Workman Publishing’s Color Your Year calendar (at right), gives you a chance to work on a seasonal masterpiece each month. At the end of the year, you’re left with a colorful gallery to keep and display.