ART THERAPY
Art therapy consists of making available a range of art materials. These include pencils, crayons, paints, papers and magazines to use in collage. Choosing relevant images from magazines can be an easy first step in the inclusion of art in therapy. The process of making art helps by externalizing what is an internal process. The act of seeing the issue expressed in art supports clarity. Often the art making is cathartic, allowing the expression of emotion. Emotions unexpressed can keep one stuck in self-defeating ways, and through the expression, new perspective and healing can be supported. The use of colour and image in the art making, connects to a deeper level within the self, allowing the intuitive wisdom to find a voice.
The art therapist draws on a range of different therapy methods in their work with others, the difference to other methods of therapy is the inclusion of the art making. The client and the therapist will work together to decide when the art making is included in the session and when it is not.
Those that are new to artmaking need not be concerned, you will be guided in using the materials in an atmosphere that is supportive and safe.
Art therapy is different to the more traditional forms of making art, the focus is not on the finished product or the quality of the art making, but on how these materials can be used in self-expression. The benefit is in the creative process and the insights gained, and not in the finished product.
In the art making there is the opportunity to connect with a felt truth and this gives a fresh prospective to an issue.
Interpretation of Art
Please note that any interpretation of the artmaking is done by the individual not by the therapist. The artworks included as examples are my own and not those of a client.
“Art has the potential to transform lives and often in profound ways; research is demonstrating that art improves not only our quality of life, but also is effective in reducing pain, fatigue and stress and increasing cognitive abilities and emotional well-being.” Cathy Malchiodi
The first image depicts anger. In the art making, the emotion of the anger is expressed, supporting a move to solutions and new a prospective.
This pair depicts the beginning of a project. The first indicates the potential but also uncertainty. The second of the pair depicts the inclusion of the roots and more form to the plant. In these processes the images will often come from an intuitive place, allow unconscious knowledge and intent to gain awareness.
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