“Living in the Sprawl” Lindsy Rivera, archival print, 12×18″ 2016

HEDGE Gallery hosts “Healing Through Art,” an exhibit that will display artwork by students from Ursuline College’s Counseling and Art Therapy Graduate Program. The work in this show will focus on healing through means of creative expression. HEDGE Gallery represented artist, Meghann Snow Hennen, will also be involved in the exhibit, with one of her interactive performance pieces taking place during the opening reception.

Art therapy is defined under the concepts of art as therapy and art psychotherapy, both of which involve the encouragement of free self-expression through any creative modality. The goal of art therapy is to improve or restore a client’s functioning and their sense of personal well being. This form of therapy can improve reality orientation, reduce anxiety, and increase self-esteem.

The Master of Arts in Counseling and Art Therapy Program at Ursuline College opens opportunities for students to flourish in an environment that teaches them how to use art as a therapeutic outlet in the context of the mental health profession. Students learn to aid clients in their personal potential and personal issues through visual and verbal expression.

As a Counseling and Art Therapy Graduate student, and guest curator of this exhibit, it is my hope that you will feel a sense of solace while viewing this exhibit. We hope that during the demands of the holiday season, this show will offer visitors an opportunity to sense healing and stay centered.