Page 24 - Msingi Afrika Magazine Issue 34
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C omm unit y
Community
that arose during the creative and play As I ventured later into life, I discovered
process. This non-verbal form of expression the therapeutic power of art therapy. This
was particularly beneficial for those specialised branch of psychotherapy
who struggled to articulate their feelings utilizes the creative process of making art
with traditional verbal communication. I as a healing tool. Encompassing a wide
remember how violent some children were array of artistic expressions—ranging from
to the clay while moulding and others were drawing and painting to sculpting and
very gentle. Looking back, I now understand writing—art therapy provides a unique outlet
better why the room was full of children who for individuals to communicate complex
were as connected as the threads of a woven emotions and experiences. It transforms
tapestry, as the roots of a tree. We were feelings into visual or tangible forms,
present, free, we felt, we laughed, we cried allowing for reflection, understanding, and
and there was no shame but pure love. healing through creativity.
My journey with art has always been deeply It was in a lecture hall that this was made
intertwined with my life experiences. From clear when we were learning about art
an early age, I immersed myself in creative therapy. I had a light bulb moment when
endeavours, exploring various mediums I connected our childhood authenticity
such as intricate carvings, vibrant clay to hours, days, and months we spent just
sculptures, expressive drawings, and heartfelt swimming in art and the disconnect created
songs. I also found joy in designing clothes by the internship experience. During that
and crafting shapes using wire, each piece lecture I encountered art therapy as an
reflecting my imagination and emotions. instrument for healing emotional wounds,
However, a critical moment occurred during aiding in personal growth, and fostering
my internship at a particular organization. self-discovery. By engaging in art-making,
We had poured our creativity and effort into individuals had a life encounter experience
a project, only for the CEO to erupt with confronting and processing unresolved
frustration. “You are not creatives; just focus issues, exploring their identities, and
on following what I say!” he barked, each developing coping mechanisms for stress
word striking me like a bolt of lightning. and anxiety while guided by a professional
educator and lead psychologist.
The piercing nature of his criticism left me
feeling deflated. That night, I returned home The artwork created during therapy provided
weighed down by despair and resolved valuable insights into our mental state,
to conceal all my artwork. The stifling enabling the therapist to better understand
atmosphere of that experience made me our inner world. This artistic journey did
wary, and from that day forward, I chose to not only cultivate resilience and emotional
keep my artistic expressions hidden away, well-being but also built a bridge between
away from the eyes of others. the subconscious and conscious mind,
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