Art therapy is a mix of visual arts and psychology. It was conceptualized in the early 1930’s, and gained traction for its efficacy treating soldiers returning from World War I and II. It is a form of psychotherapy that uses art-making as a tool for self-discovery and problem solving. Art therapy combines creativity with evidence-based counselling techniques to help you explore your issues, and to achieve your mental wellness goals.
Combining art and counselling has several therapeutic benefits. First, it has a regulating effect on the nervous system. The experience feels calming and soothing. It can work quickly because it engages more parts of the brain in the problem solving. It can also feel safer and less-threatening when you are exploring difficult or painful issues. Additionally, art enhances communication, and it allows you start processing your feelings before you even begin to talk about them.
A common misconception is that you have to be artistic to benefit from art therapy. This is completely false. Society tends to view art as a commodity, and places high value on aesthetics, and art that is “good” or marketable. Unfortunately, we overlook the important role that art plays in creating meaning, communicating, processing, and healing. Many people have been judged or shamed for their artistic attempts. This causes a wound that makes it difficult to tap into creativity and access its benefits, and can even lead to anxiety about art.
The good news is that art therapy is not about talent or creating something "good". It is about learning to explore and be creative in a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental space. Art therapy is different than art made in other environments. While some art is meant to appeal to the gaze of others, the art made in art therapy is not. It is a highly personal practice that focuses on experiencing creativity and exploration. Its value lies in its ability to create meaning and aid in emotional processing. Art does not need to be beautiful, or technically skillful to heal. In fact, some of the most profound growth comes from art that is rough, childish, primitive, and abstract. It can be difficult to let go of the idea that something has to be done well, or be useful to serve a purpose. But at the core of art therapy lies the belief: Ars gratia artis, art for the sake of art.
Junge, M. B. (2016). History of art therapy. In D. E. Gussak & M. L. Rosal (Eds.), The Wiley handbook of art therapy. Wiley Blackwell.
Jung, M.B., Wadeson, H. (2006). Architects of Art Therapy: Memoirs and Life Stories,). Charles C Thomas, Springfield, IL.
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