Oscar Wilde once said, "Man is least himself when he talks in his own person. Give him a mask, and he will tell you the truth." Art provides a way to communicate experiences when people lack verbal skills. Art therapy is founded on the assumption that everyone is creative and capable of self-expression.
As a restorative practice, it allows people to express themselves in non-verbal ways, such as drawing and painting. Even a 45-minute creative activity can change a person's mental state. Working with an art therapist does even more:
Young children typically draw and sing and dance without worrying about their abilities. Adults, however, often have complex feelings about art and art making. They begin to evaluate the quality of their art instead of focusing on self-expression itself. However, art therapists can guide people in expressing themselves without concerning whether their artwork is technically brilliant, so that they can connect or reconnect with the artworks that help them deal with life challenges.
What are art therapists' superpower? They can channel dangerous thoughts into imaginative artworks. For instance, people with violent tendencies might let out their anger by hitting another human being. These artistic choices satisfy the brain's desire for novelty without compromising personal safety.
A. Art therapy is a double-edged sword.
B. Thus, the many benefits of creative self-expression are lost.
C. They develop art as an expressive skill for solving problems.
D. But, obviously, releasing their anger in this way isn't a good choice.
E. Art therapy, in its own ways, can influence a range of human functioning.
F. It can significantly enhance positive moods and boost measures of well-being.
G. However, with art therapists' help, their energy could be changed into creative products.
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