Community Questions Answered
This is a new section of the newsletter where art therapy professionals answer questions posed by the community!
Art Therapists’ Answers:
Kate Morris: “On a personal level, all of my art making is therapeutic and when shared with others alleviates feelings of isolation. When I have the courage to share my artwork with my friends, family and the greater community I am creating an opportunity for myself to be vulnerable, honest and to be witnessed. Most recently, I had several pieces displayed in a coffee shop; every week I stopped by a shop to restock cards and prints and to check on sales. One adorable barista told me she loved how my work reflected positivity in the viewer; she said her customers often commented on how the whimsical images made them feel lighthearted and happy. Which in turn, made me feel so much more connected to my greater community and incredibly hopeful that my messages and my images can make a small positive impact in the hearts of not just my immediate family and friend circle, but in the greater world as well.”
Amy Jones: “Art is the equivalent of having another presence in the room. When one creates art, there’s an opportunity to be in connection with the work - to dialogue with and reflect on an externalized part of oneself. The art therapist is the gentle guide in helping to facilitate that process.”
Gracie Bueno: “My experience in working with seniors at the retirement home speaks to an increase in their social interactions thereby decreasing feelings of isolation.”
Jacenta Irlanda: “If you think about the nature of art itself, human beings are naturally born with a mind to create. Art is one way we stay connected across generations, eras, and across cultures. Imagery breaks through language barriers, creating a universal language. Therefore, art can speak to a multitude of people due to its innate ability to form communities and establish a connection. Art therapy utilizes that connection to promote healing in others and there is no better way to heal than with others.”
- Community Question: How does art therapy alleviate feelings of isolation?
Art Therapists’ Answers:
Kate Morris: “On a personal level, all of my art making is therapeutic and when shared with others alleviates feelings of isolation. When I have the courage to share my artwork with my friends, family and the greater community I am creating an opportunity for myself to be vulnerable, honest and to be witnessed. Most recently, I had several pieces displayed in a coffee shop; every week I stopped by a shop to restock cards and prints and to check on sales. One adorable barista told me she loved how my work reflected positivity in the viewer; she said her customers often commented on how the whimsical images made them feel lighthearted and happy. Which in turn, made me feel so much more connected to my greater community and incredibly hopeful that my messages and my images can make a small positive impact in the hearts of not just my immediate family and friend circle, but in the greater world as well.”
Amy Jones: “Art is the equivalent of having another presence in the room. When one creates art, there’s an opportunity to be in connection with the work - to dialogue with and reflect on an externalized part of oneself. The art therapist is the gentle guide in helping to facilitate that process.”
Gracie Bueno: “My experience in working with seniors at the retirement home speaks to an increase in their social interactions thereby decreasing feelings of isolation.”
Jacenta Irlanda: “If you think about the nature of art itself, human beings are naturally born with a mind to create. Art is one way we stay connected across generations, eras, and across cultures. Imagery breaks through language barriers, creating a universal language. Therefore, art can speak to a multitude of people due to its innate ability to form communities and establish a connection. Art therapy utilizes that connection to promote healing in others and there is no better way to heal than with others.”
