Art therapy….it’s the best medication that you don’t even need a prescription for. This unique field touches so many lives, whether it be an evening of painting to relieve stress or a drawing session for recovering drug addicts. There is something about art therapy that awakens a new and creative part of the brain. Marywood is well-known for their art therapy program, and on Friday, March 27, 2015 they hosted the annual Art Therapy Symposium.

The annual Symposium brought faculty, students, and community members together to gain insight on art therapy from a guest speaker. This year’s speaker was Dr. Michael Franklin from Naropa University. Dr. Franklin believes in applying the studies of worship and meditation to those of art therapy. He has done research on topics such as aesthetics, self-esteem and community-based therapy.

The day consisted of lunch, discussion, and a hands-on workshop in the afternoon. The workshop demonstrated how using clay as a medium connects to different themes of life such as change. Art therapists were not the only professionals welcome to attend. Counselors, educators, social workers, and art therapy students could also benefit from Dr. Franklin’s perspectives.

I know that when you hear the words “eight hour conference” you start to freak out. But this is an art conference, remember? Conferences and workshops are great ways to learn more about the field you love and meet professionals who love the field just as much as you do.

Marywood’s Art Therapy program is designed to meet the needs of those interested in a career that includes both a commitment to art-making and a commitment to serving others. It will introduce you to the human service profession of art therapy at a pre-professional level. LEARN MORE

Image credit: Dr. Michael Franklin, http://www.artisyoga.com/about/