This is something that especially applies to art therapy. We talk about it often in session, especially in groups where people tend to compare their creative output with others in the group. Artistic skill is not needed to benefit from art therapy, and we work a lot on not putting value judgments on what they create - for others or themselves. People have all kinds of various experiences, talents, exposure, and interest levels in art, and each piece people create is unique and individualized to them. There is no right or wrong way to create art in an art therapy session, which I do think is harder to internalize in a group setting than an individual setting, though there are plenty of inner critics out there who will fill that role for people in the absence of a group. The art helps you connect to your own self-expression and creativity, and holds meaning for YOU...that is what we focus on in art therapy. It can be an attitude helpful for anyone who creates art as well. It is hard to shift gears from a performance-based society, but it can be done. Feel free to express yourself!
I loved that one! It is a reminder for all of those who struggles with self-esteem while creating art. Or even in everyday life itself. Same as in Art there is no competence in life. You create the life that is best for YOU. You don't need to chase the same belongnings as your neighbour, you don't need to be interested in the same things as your family members, etc. You just have to be, feel and know yourself (here comes the art therapy) and live the way you feel like. Life and Art are not a competition.
ReplyDeleteI always stressed the importance of not comparing their work with others in the class. This blog reiterates the same philosophy. In art therapy it is even more important to not putting value judgments on what is created. There is no right or wrong. The art should hold meaning for the person, not for anyone else.
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