Self-expression through visual art can help us to understand and better communicate emotions, release energy, and aggression productively, and leave us with feelings of accomplishment. You don’t have to be Monet to utilize art as a means to heal — it has nothing to do with skill level!
How it Heals
In the same way that talking with a therapist can provide relief and comfort, so can putting a pencil to a page. Art therapy is accessible to anyone and can be done individually on your schedule. Many people also have different approaches when it comes to art therapy and through that receive different kinds of healing. Some may focus on their thoughts and feelings and try to communicate them through art; this can not only create a sense of release but also make it easier to communicate these feelings verbally. Others may try to focus on nothing at all and use art as a way to relax and distract themselves. Art is also an incredible way to exercise your brain, creativity, and fine motor skills! It seems that children understand this almost intuitively, often attempting to communicate their thoughts and feelings through drawings. For any age group, art can be incredibly powerful in helping us assert ourselves in our experiences.
What it Looks Like
As you may know, art can take on many shapes and forms. From pottery to photography and realism to the abstract, the realm of art knows little bounds. This is true of art therapy as well! Art therapy is a highly individualized and personal form of art because it so often focuses on feelings. Because of this, people who do art therapy are often creating new and exciting things that are unique to them and their experience. Those without any background in art can produce amazing paintings and sculptures. Even when you create something, it may not be awe-inspiring but the point is that you made it and it means something to you.
Approaches You Can Take
If you’re new to art it may seem daunting to jump right in and start painting. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with doing exactly that! However, if you’re interested in taking baby steps then there are plenty of options.
Healing Through Photography
Photography is a great way to begin experimenting with art because most of us already have access to cameras on our phones — and yes, taking pictures on your phone can be photography! The important part of using photography as art therapy is choosing your subject. You may be interested in flowers, people, or cars but choosing a subject that will help you relax while you photograph it and after you’ve taken the pictures is key. If you’re more interested in the abstract, try using the zoom feature or purchasing a special lens for your phone. Photography doesn’t have to stop once your photo has been taken. You have the option to edit your pictures or even Photoshop them — you can create special effects or enhance elements within your images. You may also be interested in posting them online, starting a blog, or creating a personal photobook. Cataloging your work and progress can help you see how much you’ve grown and take pride in your work.
Healing Through Abstract Expressionism
One of the most popular approaches to art therapy is abstract expressionism. This form of art works incredibly well to channel and release emotions — the word “expression” is even in the name. A very simple beginning to abstract expressionism involves only three tools: paint, something to spread the paint, and something to paint on. You don’t need brushes, canvas, or anything fancy. Some people may choose to select colors that are reflective of their mood while others may just use colors that they enjoy. Either is fine. You can use one color or 20 and the only real requirement is that the paint ends up on your painting surface. From there you can choose whether to mix colors, spread them around, or leave them as globs of paint. Whether you want a controlled experience or a more loose one is up to you but the way you decide to move your paint around will be the most therapeutic part of the exercise. If you’re looking to relax you may try using lighter colors and small, slow movements. If you want to release some pent-up energy then you might try using bright colors with large, fast movements.
Art can help us heal and express ourselves in ways we may not have thought ourselves capable of — it can provide us with relief, release, and retrospection. Using art to heal and grow is something anyone can do. If you are struggling with addiction and are interested in a treatment facility that offers art therapy call Rancho Milagro at (951) 526-4582. In addition to art therapy, we also offer nature, massage, and animal therapy. Rancho Milagro is located in the secluded hills of Temecula, CA, and can provide you with a peaceful and private healing experience. Our ranch is home to over 20 farm and therapy animals as well as miles of private hiking trails. At Rancho Milagro, you will receive attentive and individualized care that tends to your entire person: mind, body, and spirit. We know that recovery looks different for everyone and that is why we ensure each of our residents receives the personal attention they deserve, offering both individual and group therapy options.