Volunteer placement is one of the components of SETU house. This time it is our pleasure, Jennifer Thompson, an Art Therapist from the USA, volunteered her expertise at SETU Nepal. At the time (November 2015), SETU was conducting a regular training program for mothers with HIV. Jennifer organized an Art Therapy session for the mothers. As she is also a psychologist she observed much potential and feelings coming out from the hearts of the women.
She talked about the difference between art (making something for its own sake-valid!) and art therapy (making something – pattern from color) for the reason of knowing something more about yourself.
She distributed a blank paper and colorful pens to all participants and requested them to draw picture about their interest, feelings, desires….
After the participants finished their drawings, they were asked to explain their picture and also share their feelings. All of them were very excited to be able to express their feelings and desires. They all did an excellent job, and for some of them it was their first time drawing! The art gave them an outlet for their pain and to see their unfulfilled desires through drawing. Overall the art therapy session brought them happiness.
The following is the evaluation from Jennifer in art therapist and artist point of view.
“The artist captured the shape of Nepal, perhaps even along the districts. What stands out to me is an exquisite design. With the use of color and shape and the combination of colors with small shapes within this is mature patterning, indicating a developmental level at 11-12 years. Also a feminine way of using color and shape in pattern. I feel Its important within the historical and current political status of Nepal. The blockade at the Indian border is in its third month. There is redistricting involved as part of conflict resolution. Perhaps the artist is unaware of these political questions and ramification rights now? Perhaps either way the psycho of the person is involved in her country’s well being. Care, concern in detail color and form is evident .I love my country indicates care of group and cultural identity.”
“This was Kalawoti’s first time drawing. I am struck by the realism with the abstract of more free flowing, balance, the bird and log (or stick) is realistically drawn. The river (although with a defined form was flowing and staccato with the marker. So design used to depict low and abstraction. Also, the log contains an abstract depiction of bank vegetation (or as part of log). This is unusual developmental maturity. The combination of realism, design of a decorative nature and abstract depiction within form, indicates balance, ability to flow along with ability to precise and ability to communicate visually.”