INTRODUCTION TO VISUAL ART

THERAPY

WHAT IS VISUAL ART THERAPY?

Art therapy is a dynamic field in the mental health

profession that uses art media, such as paint,

ready made, crayons and sculpture as its primary

mode of communication. Art therapy is used with

people of all ages, from children to the elderly,

and it is especially valuable with clients who have

difficulties expressing themselves verbally .

The history of art therapy

The oldest cave painting in the El Castillo cave in Cantabria, Spain and dates back 40,000 years

Art has been used since the beginning of human history as a medium for communicating thoughts and ideas. The ancient man used painting as part of religious ceremonies or to reach out to others in the area

MOVING FORWARD IN HISTORYArt became an instrument for self-expression and

symbolism. However, it wasn’t until the 1940′s that the

therapeutic use of art was defined and developed into a

distinct discipline.

Adrian Hill was the first to use art as therapy .While being treated in a sanatorium for tuberculosis,

this artist suggested to his fellow patients participating in art projects .

 

ART THERAPISTS WORK IN A VARIETY OF

SETTINGS, INCLUDING HOSPITALS, EDUCATIONAL

INSTITUTIONS, COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH

FACILITIES, PRISONS, HOSPICES, DAY-CARE CENTERS

AND PRIVATE PRACTICES

WHAT THE ART THERAPIST DO?

The therapist creates a “safe place” for the patient.

Helps the patient to find the right media or materials.

Helps the patient during the artistic process.

The therapist encourage the patient to interpret and

analyze his art product.

YOU DON’T NEED TO BE TALENTED OR AN ARTIST TO

RECEIVE THE BENEFITS

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THE ADVANTAGES OF VISUAL ART THERAPYAllowed people to express, explore and to learn about themselves in a non-verbal way.Encourage creativity.Build self esteem.Can be a useful way to understand children's way of thinking.Decrees symptoms of distress.Improve quality of life.A way to let your emotion out.Fun!