Art Therapy History
People have used art for centuries as a means to convey thoughts and ideas as well as depictions of places, portraits of people and to capture moments in history whether it is the mundane or key historical events. The evolution from art to portraying thoughts and emotions has been a natural extension of this since humans started to depict their lives in prehistoric cave paintings where they drew family groups participating in routine life events such as food gathering.
>> Ancient History
Art therapy has ancient roots, with many cultures recognising its healing and expressive value. The Egyptians used art in healing rituals, believing it connected them with the divine for physical and spiritual healing. Similarly, the Greeks saw art as a way to restore balance and harmony, using it for emotional relief and self-expression. The term "therapy" itself comes from the Greek word "therapeia," meaning healing or service.
>>18th and 19th Century
In the 18th and 19th centuries, art was increasingly used as a therapeutic tool. Doctors and psychiatrists noted its positive effects on mental health, incorporating drawing and painting into treatments for emotional release and self-reflection.
Dr. William James, a psychologist, believed art could access the unconscious mind, helping patients express deep emotions.
>> Early 20th Century (Early Psychology)
The early 20th century found psychiatrists like Carl Jung and Sigmund Freud integrating illustration, painting and drawing into their psychiatric practice.
Art therapy was gaining recognition as a legitimate therapeutic approach.
>> Early 20th Century (founding of Art Therapy)
In 1938, British artist Dr. Adrian Hill discovered art's therapeutic benefits while battling tuberculosis. He documented his recovery and the role art played in it.
By 1942, Hill was teaching art to patients recovering from tuberculosis and launched an art therapy program to support their recovery.
Hill is now recognised as the founder of art therapy practice.
>> Art Therapy during the World Wars
Art therapy gained recognition as a legitimate therapeutic approach. During the World Wars, it helped soldiers cope with trauma, providing a means to process experiences and manage emotions. Techniques like drawing, painting, and sculpture allowed soldiers to explore their inner worlds. Group sessions fostered camaraderie, and art therapy played a crucial role in rehabilitating wounded soldiers, improving motor skills and overall well-being
>> Post War Era
Margaret Naumburg, a New York based psychologist significantly advanced the field by using art therapy with mentally ill children.
Her preferred technique was scribble drawing, using large sheets of paper and continuous movement of paint or chalk pastel. Patients would then find and colour an image within the scribble, often discussing their artwork during the process. This technique could be done with eyes closed or using the nondominant hand to encourage unconscious imagery. Scribble drawing was developed by her sister, Florence Cane, to help release unconscious imagery.
>> 1960's
Art therapy gained formal recognition as a therapeutic process in both the UK and the USA where governing bodies were established to ensure consistency in skills and approach.
Brisish Association of Art Therapists (BAAT) ( Established 1962 )
>> 1980's
Edward Adamson, an artist who served in World War II, collaborated with Adrian Hill to bring art therapy to British mental hospitals. Adamson explored how creating art could help patients express and release their emotions. He believed that art could reveal patients' feelings and started a collection to provide a safe space for them to express themselves through art.
>> Current Day
Art therapy has widely recognised benefits particularly to those with physical and mental health challenges, such as recovering medical patients and those surviving psychological trauma. It helps reduce stress, improve well-being, and provides a sense of control. Art therapy enhances communication, fosters community, and improves quality of life.
Art Therapy in Educational and Community Settings In schools and community centers, art therapy promotes self-discovery and personal growth. It enhances self-esteem, and provides a non-verbal outlet for expression particularly where emotional problems prevent communication . In community settings, it fosters connection, emotional support, and a sense of belonging. Art therapy also addresses social issues, raising awareness and promoting dialogue on mental health, gender equality, and cultural diversity.
