Therapeutic art on display at ‘Connections’ exhibition

Connections exhibition 

The Master of Art Therapy program at the University of Western Sydney explores the relationship between the visual arts and emotional wellbeing, as well as the ways that artistic expression can help to soothe the soul.

From Friday 1 March 2013, an eclectic sample of artworks created by Master of Art Therapy staff, students and graduates will be on display at Gallery Red in Glebe.

Kate T Deacock, a contributing artist and lecturer from the UWS School of Social Sciences and Psychology, says the Connections exhibition will showcase the artistic abilities of art therapists.

“Art therapy can offer clients a form of therapeutic expression and processing that is beyond words,” says Ms Deacock.

“Some materials and techniques can feel safe and calming to use, whereas others can elicit surprising physiological and emotional responses that can feel frightening and exposing.

“By practising as an artist themselves, therapists are able to hone their skills in working with different art materials and techniques as well as develop a greater sensitivity to their clients’ individual needs.”

Gallery Red is a commercial contemporary exhibition venue that aims to showcase the wealth of emerging talent, as well as established and practising artists, in Sydney’s creative community.

The Connections exhibition is an opportunity for artists involved in the UWS Master of Art Therapy program to showcase their works of art, and for the wider community to experience and appreciate the forms of art that can be created by art therapists.

Members of the public are invited to attend the official opening of the Connections exhibition at 6pm, Friday 1 March 2013. At the opening, guests will have the opportunity to meet the featured artists and hear a short performance of poetry from Dr Sheridan Linnell, the coordinator of the Master of Art Therapy program.

The exhibition will run until 19 March 2013.

WHAT: ‘Connections’ art exhibition

WHEN: 1-19 March 2013

WHERE: Gallery Red, Shop 11, 131-145 Glebe Point Road, Glebe

For more information, visit http://www.galleryred.net.au or email art@galleryred.com.au