Hello!

The process of art making connects humans with their unique ideas, lived experiences, feelings, sensory preferences, and preferred ways of moving. We use making as a way to construct ourselves and to represent our unique perspectives and experiences through creative materials and sometimes with accompanying words or narrative. For those with disabilities, engagement with minimally directive artmaking may open up a space of opportunity for authentic, meaningful representation of self and offer a rich alternative mode for communication of thoughts and feelings.

Rather than a product to be made, sequential tasks to be followed, and “right” ways to use materials, making art with me in studio represents an opportunity that centers individual creative process, interests, and subject matter passions. Within the studio space of possibility and through relationship with me and the available art materials, disabled artists are supported in their own trial and error processes toward finding satisfaction with what and how they are creating.

Using communication supports as needed, we can also talk through what additional goals you might have for your art making time with me. For example, some artist-clients are interested in practicing direct, narrative communication about their process and work. Some may wish to practice decision making and social skills through art making. Other artist-clients are interested in processing difficult lived experiences such as exclusion, loneliness, and lack of access. Still others may be interested in working on developing and deepening strategies for flexibly navigating potentially overwhelming sensory or unexpected experiences within a safe, creative environment. These examples are just a few possibilities. There are so many ways in which art making can support personal growth and development of self.

If you or a disabled loved one would appreciate an ongoing opportunity to experience creative self-determination within a supported studio environment with an art therapist, I would love to talk with you!