Saturday, August 4, 2007

My own Art Therapy

Being able to create art and focus on something other than doctors, hospitals, or my son leaving for college, has been real therapy for me. I can see why art therapy has been beneficial to those with physical and emotional illnesses. The relationship between art and mental illness has been evolving since the late 1800's. It was and still is a tool to help patients release unconscious thoughts by allowing them to speak their feelings symbolically through their art. In 1969, the American Art Therapy was formed and education standards were set so that people could actually train to become art therapists. Art therapy has helped children and adults with eating disorders, sexual abuse, bereavement, addiction issues and etc.

"Through the Trees", an original ACEO watercolor,acrylic, ink card in my etsy store.

Personally, my art has been my refuge. It's the one safe place I can go and create whatever I desire with no distractions. A great escape from the every day grind.

5 comments:

BetteJo said...

Art therapy. That's what making pot holders is for me. And I have woven a LOT of pot holders! :)

Your artwork is just beautiful, I'm glad it helps you emotionally as well, what a bonus! Just keep painting!

palette48 said...

bette jo,

Thank you so much! Yes, I think I would go absolutely crazy if I didn't have the art.

The Family Jewels said...

My art is what has gotten me through all of what I have gone through. I am glad that you have that creative outlet to balance everything else that is being thrown your way lately.

Blessing to you and your family, ~Tonia

Knitted Gems said...

Your tree card is just lovely, palette48. Of course, trees in general always bring a sense of calm and wonder to me. I suppose that is why my favorite part of gardening is pruning my trees.
Warm wishes to you as your son ventures off to college.

palette48 said...

Thank you knitted gems for the warm wishes. I love trees too and love hiking through the forests, it is very calming.

Thanks Tonia, I am glad you have the art too. It is a life saver.