Art Therapy Isn't Just for Artists

In my work as an art therapist I am granted the joy of both witnessing and creating art alongside my clients. This can be a powerful and transformative experience, but also, initially a bit scary for some individuals. Where does this fear of engaging in the creative process come from? As young children, we revel in the experience of making our mark, exploring materials through creative play, creating special objects, storytelling through images and letting our imaginations roam unbridled.  Unfortunately for most of us, this once joyful and freeing activity becomes burdened by doubt, trepidation and harsh self-criticism.

When speaking with people about their personal art practice (or lack thereof) I have heard endless accounts of bad experiences in art class, negative or dismissive remarks from others about artwork and the pervasive belief that only certain people are “real” artists because they are “better” at art making.

Early incidents of criticism or judgement of our art work, being made to feel we are wasting time by engaging in a creative practice and repeatedly comparing ourselves to others often leads to avoidance and complete cessation of any form of creative expression. Sadly, when we cease engaging in creative practices, we lose a connection to part of ourselves. 

If we are able to quell our inner critic and move past fear and avoidance we can begin to reconnect with the part of ourselves that has been silenced. Once we make space for our creative nature to emerge through a personal creative practice such as art, music, movement or writing we increase the fluidity of our authentic expression, allowing us to connect more deeply with ourselves and the world around us. So I encourage you to find a way to make your mark, no straight lines required.

In this photo from one of our Adult Art Therapy groups, a man uses watercolor paint to re-create his “best day”