Art making not only tells a story, it enacts an experience. It is easier for a child to talk about an image than about themself.
Art Therapy differs from traditional art making in that the emphasis is on the process of creating and meaning making, rather than the end product. The interpersonal relationship between therapist and child is of central importance and is developed through the art process, with clear boundaries and set intentions.
The Gunawirra Art Therapy program is an emotional healing support for the pre-school children. It is open style and non-directive, with an emphasis on child freedom and play. This style of therapy is a more natural way for children who may have experienced trauma to express themselves. The Art Therapy program is designed in collaboration with individual pre-schools to suit their unique needs.
Project Details
These sessions use art as a medium for healing. The small size of the groups facilitates the intimacy and focus that this sensitive work requires.
Art Therapists work across Aboriginal pre- and primary schools in rural New South Wales. The therapists fly to country centres and spend the day conducting open style sessions with children. The Art Therapist can help the child think about their feelings and experiences in a meaningful way.
The aims for children are to experience a safe and trusted space for emotional expression, develop their capacity for emotion regulation, improve learning, social and emotional development and the capacity for play and imagination.
Outcomes
Over time, the children form a strong relationship with the Art Therapist. As this relationship develops, the children become more comfortable settling for longer periods of time, listening and participating in class.
The children become more socially engaged with the therapist, their peers and teachers. They also become more confident in using language, reading and writing.
Research and Evaluation
University of Sydney has previously evaluated our Art Therapy program under the direction of Senior Lecturer in Social Work and Policy Studies, Denise Lynch.
Access the Art Therapy Program research paper.
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Gunawirra is a public benevolent institution and all donations are tax deductible.
Gunawirra wishes to acknowledge all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their communities of Australia, and we respect and recognise that they still have a strong continuing connection to their culture, land, water and community.
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