Therapeutic art embraces the child
Being in hospital often entails a lot of waiting and uncertainty. Art therapy enable children to feel safe for a little while.
When we are not well, we are allowed to receive help and remain passive. We are never only sick. The process of therapeutic art embraces the whole child, which encompasses so much more than 'a small child carrying an illness'. It is not about being good, or clever, or doing good art. It is the journey of exploration and curiosity that is important: a journey which may also transcend time and space in the moment of creative expression. The art therapist's role is to meet the child where they are and to facilitate a space for the healthy part to be seen and reflected back to them.
When children can express themselves creatively, the hope is that, it provides relief and makes it possible to feel safe for a little while.Children embark on a playful journey into a world of color, where they can be fully autonomous. Sometimes they like to create something concrete. Sometimes they create a harmony of colors. There is no right or wrong. The most important is that the child can express themself freely, uninterrupted without adult interference.
The art therapist uses whatever unfolds on the paper as a starting point for conversations with an open mind and without jumping to conclusions. It is understood that as soon as something happens on the paper, a ‘conversation’ has begun: it is a conversation the child has with herself or himself through colors and shapes.
Sometimes the child adds words while drawing and painting.
Mariell says:
- I want to draw a clown.
- Oh, the doctor is a bit too tall. He has to bow his head’
Art therapist says:
- Maybe he is talking to someone?’
Mariell says:
- Yes, I will draw a baby. LIke this!
- What's the word for when you are in a hospital...??
Oh! I know, patient! I will write PATIENT!'
Because the art therapist sees the child continuously over a longer period of time, they can embark on a deeper shared journey together exploring thoughts and feelings. The child can use and explore all the creative colors and shapes they need. The significance of an uninterrupted journey is of great value in building up the strength and resources of the child. Each journey is unique because each child is unique.
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