Art Therapy Activities for All Ages
by Joan Stewart

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The purpose of Art Therapy is to create an oasis of time to allow the brain and body to relax, recharge, and rejuvenate itself, while exploring the creative process of manipulating design elements such as line, shape, form, space, texture, tone, and color. Art Therapy can help people express themselves more freely, improve their mental health, and improve interpersonal relationships. The basis of Art Therapy is established on the idea that people can recover and feel better via artistic expression. There is increasing evidence in rehabilitation medicine and the field of neuroscience that art enhances brain function by impacting brain wave patterns, emotions and the nervous system. Art can also raise serotonin levels. These benefits don’t just come from making art, they also occur by experiencing art. As an Art Facilitator, I have thoroughly tested all the activities in this book over many years and with a variety of people. Many activities are structured to encourage team work, problem solving and communication as well as individual creativity in a relaxed, social environment. I was always surprised and impressed at the results. While each activity focuses on one of the main categories (brain, senses, memory, teamwork and loss) all of them involve a number of skills. The results can be different with each new group and even when presented to the same group again.

www.startyourartisticengines.ca

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Joan Stewart graduated with honors from the Ontario College of Art and Design University in Toronto, Ontario. She also attended a three-year Seneca College Diploma program in Advanced Color and Design in Toronto. Joan was awarded two travel and study bursaries to Finland and Guatemala by the Ontario Crafts Council to study traditional weaving techniques, color and costume. In recent years, Joan worked as an Art Therapy Facilitator and a specialized Fitness Instructor with many clients. Participants who have suffered from chronic illnesses, mental health issues and addiction problems have also benefited from her knowledgeable background and expertise.

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Joan Stewart