Thanks Tamara: That’s part of what is great about art therapy – the process IS just as important as the product. It’s about using a tool that helps you to problem solve with the more imaginative part of your brain using metaphor and symbols.

I am totally missing a widget – or whatever – that would allow people to follow the comment string! Thanks for the reminder.

Thanks for reading!
Amy

Hey, have you considered adding a plugin (or widget or whatever they’re called!) that would allow commenters to be notified when others comment on a particular post? Your posts are going to have the potential to generate some great discussions but right now there’s no easy way for commenters to know that the dialogue continues. Just a suggestion!

Hi Tamara:

I love that you are doing your own consultation group, that is such great support and self care.

Art as prayer is something that probably has its roots in my life childhood, but I really became conscious of it during my grad school studies. For many artists, myself included, when you really open yourself to the art process and let go, it can feel more like you are a conduit, than the author. I have at times felt admiration for some of the art pieces. And it’s not a self-involved, immodest admiration, but rather an admiration for something that feels quite separate from me. Some pieces seem come THROUGH me, not because of me. My job is not to have talent, or inspiration, but to get out of the way and let it emerge honestly. That’s the humbling sort of experience that makes you realize how small you are. It’s akin to what many experience in nature, looking at space, or in shared communal rituals and experiences. And yes, I will be posting about this more in the future, you can be sure. It’s a passion I know many musicians, dancers, actors, and visual artists share, so I would love to have an open forum about it here.

Thanks as always for your thoughtful comments, Tamara.

And, Marina! I love the idea of putting together a group for other art therapists, too. I’m not an art therapist but found I needed to be around others doing clinical work as well. My solution, similar to yours, was to create my own consultation group. We’re starting on our 4th year next month with virtually no turnover. It’s one of the best things I’ve ever done for me – professionally and personally.

Thanks for sharing a great twist on this as a way for art therapists to find / share support!

Hi Marina

It’s lovely to “see” you here. Thank you too for your wonderful and rich ideas. I love how practical your use of art as prayer is as a way to minimize anxiety and call on a higher power. I also wish that I was closer in order to be able to participate in your art support group! I think having something that keeps us accountable to do our own art is key.

Be well, Amy

Nicole – I can be rather type-A myself at times! I think that’s why an imaginative and creative approach is really helpful – it gets us out of our head and our WORDS. My clients frequently envision new solutions to their problems and let go of difficult emotions like anger, sadness, and anxiety, with art therapy. Thanks for commenting!
Amy