Transformative arts is the use of various artistic activities, such as painting, craft-making, creative movement, and music participation to precipitate constructive individual and social change.
The social changes affected through transformative arts occur when this altered perception manifests in new ways of interacting with others.
Even though participation in artistic activities for therapeutic purposes has been around for thousands of years, the origin of transformative arts as a modern formal concept is commonly attributed to the work of John Dewey.
Dewey’s four main ideas around which transformative arts pivot:
Art is not an object but an experience, in which one or more persons participate.
Every individual is potentially an artist by way of his or her capacity to participate in this experience, through any artistic activity.
Such participation inevitably precipitates some kind of transformative change in how the participants think, feel, and behave.
Art is both psychological and social, transforming not only through individual intrapersonal processes but also through interpersonal relationships.
Transformative arts are facilitated by artists with the purpose of promoting individual introspection and the social purpose of promoting inclusion, reciprocity, and justice.
Finding Solutions Through Transformative Arts
My transformative arts method guides you through the use of various art activities and short writing prompts for individual reflection. Participation in various forms of the arts such as creative movement, music, theater exercises, crafting, and photography is encouraged but optional. Delving into a different artistic field than you are used to can help spark new creativity and diminish stress and axiety.
Finding Relief Through Art & Positive Guidance
My services include one-to-one art making sessions, art-making classes, and self-guided art-making. There is no judgment here. Transformation, healing, self-growth, and management of difficult emotions are important goals to consider on your creative journey. What are your aspirations (art spirations)?
If you are someone seeking relief for your stress and anxiety or just looking to find more creativity in your life, please consider the following when deciding if my Transformative Arts Method is right for you.
Who this method is for:
Anyone who wants to process their thoughts and feelings through art, journaling, and other various artistic expressions to improve mood and creativity.
Both beginners and experienced creatives (skills are not required).
Anyone who loves various art approaches and writing exercises, and is open to other forms of art expression within a safe space.
Anyone open to a personal mentor, and/or participating in a class, and/or using self-guided products.
Who this method is not for:
Someone who is looking for art lessons to improve their skills.
Someone not open to exploring the underlying cause of stress and anxiety.
Someone who doesn’t believe in the benefits of expressive art.
Someone needing a medical diagnosis or clinical services.
Understanding the Difference Between Clinical Therapy and Transformative Art
Clinical art therapy focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of specific mental disorders within a medical setting.
Transformative Art helps to facilitate change using expressive art practices in a supportive but non-medical setting.
The client’s sole responsibility is to determine the service necessary for their treatment.
