Exploring Therapeutic Benefits of Art Materials in Art Therapy
Art therapy is a unique form of therapy that combines the creative process of making art with the introspective process of talk therapy. This blog will cover:
Difference between art mediums and art matierals
Therapeutic benefits of art materials used art therapy
Difference Between Art Mediums and Art Materials
Art mediums and art materials are closely related but have distinct meanings:
Art Mediums refer to the type of art or technique you are using to create. This could include drawing, painting, sculpture, collage, or digital art. The medium is the overall category or method you choose to express yourself creatively. For example, watercolor painting or clay modeling are mediums.
Art Materials, on the other hand, are the tools and supplies you use within those mediums. They are the tangible items that enable the creative process, such as paint, brushes, paper, or clay. For example, if watercolor painting is the medium, the materials might include watercolor paints, brushes, and watercolor paper.
In essence, the medium is the "how" of your art, while the materials are the "what" that brings your medium to life. Both are essential in art therapy, as they provide different avenues for self-expression and exploration.
Therapeutic benefits of Art Materials
Here's a look at some common art supplies used in art therapy and their therapeutic benefits.
1. Drawing Pencils and Charcoal
Therapeutic Benefits:
Expression of Detail and Control: Drawing pencils and charcoal allow for detailed and controlled expression, which can be particularly therapeutic for individuals who may feel a lack of control in other areas of their lives.
Exploring Emotions: The use of charcoal, with its ability to create both soft and stark lines, can help in exploring and expressing complex emotions, such as anger, sadness, or confusion.
Mindfulness and Focus: The act of drawing can be meditative, helping individuals focus and become present in the moment, which is beneficial for reducing anxiety and stress.
2. Acrylic and Watercolor Paints
Therapeutic Benefits:
Emotional Release: Paints allow for the release of emotions through colour and brush strokes. The fluidity of watercolors, in particular, can encourage a sense of letting go and freedom.
Non-Verbal Communication: For those who find it difficult to verbalize their feelings, painting can provide an alternative form of communication.
Exploration of Identity: The process of choosing colours, forms, and compositions can help individuals explore and express their identities.
3. Clay and Sculpting Materials
Therapeutic Benefits:
Tactile Engagement: Working with clay is a highly tactile experience, which can be grounding and calming. It can help individuals connect with their bodies and senses.
Building Confidence: Successfully creating a sculpture can boost self-esteem and provide a sense of accomplishment.
4. Collage Materials (Paper, Magazines, Scissors, Glue)
Therapeutic Benefits:
Creative Problem Solving: Collage work involves selecting and arranging various elements, which can mirror the process of piecing together different aspects of one’s life.
Exploration of Subconscious: The images and words chosen can reveal subconscious thoughts and feelings, providing insight and promoting self-awareness.
Safe Exploration: Collages can be a non-threatening way to explore difficult topics, as the indirect method of expression can feel less confrontational.
5. Markers and Crayons
Therapeutic Benefits:
Ease of Use: Markers and crayons are simple and accessible tools that can encourage spontaneous expression, particularly beneficial for those new to art therapy as it takes us back to our formative years and invites a child like playfulness.
Soothe & Express through Colour : The choice of colours can be therapeutic, as different colours evoke different emotional responses. For instance, bright colours can uplift mood, while darker shades can help express sadness or anger. While there are generalisations about what certain colours mean, you will create your own colour language that will evolve and change.
Stress Relief: The repetitive motion of colouring and making marks can be soothing and help reduce stress e.g. bilateral drawing practice.
Conclusion
The use of art supplies in art therapy is not about creating a finished product; it's about the process of connecting your inner and outer world and the meaning you create from it. Each tool and material has its own unique benefits, allowing individuals to explore and express their inner worlds in a safe and supportive environment. When we can find mediums that allow ease of expression we can utilise art making as a care practice, rather than an activity to create an outcome.
Interested in Online Art Therapy?
Ready to express, release and soothe through creativity? I’m Mary-Helen, a qualified Transpersonal Art Therapist who gently guides you through creative processes that help you ground, restore and recover parts of yourself and reclaim your spark. Book a free discovery call with me today—I’d love to support you on your journey!
