Intro to Visual Arts and Healing

I've decided to put my Master's thesis, Visual Arts and Healing, here on my blog. I feel its information is timely and relevant, and in many ways fits into the stated framework of this blog. Don't worry, it's no more technical than any other stuff I've posted on my blog. Actually, there's some pretty cool stuff in it. Enjoy.


INTRODUCTION


When asked to list ways in which art can aid in the process of healing, most people automatically think of art therapy. While this is true in that art therapy is extensively used in a therapeutic psychological environment, it is not the only means that the visual arts can contribute to both physical and emotional healing and health.
In view of the fact that the health care situation in this country is in major peril, while at the same time interest in alternative healing strategies is rising exponentially, it is worthwhile to examine the role of art in healing, both for personal reasons and growth, and as a non-technological, non-bureaucratic and inexpensive way to cope with the state of one’s health. Both artists and alternative healing professionals can benefit from this information; even allopathic physicians could benefit by at least considering the implica- tions of art and healing.
When research on this paper began, resources concerning this subject were relatively few and far between. Lately, research has begun to blossom, especially in clinically controlled experiments, where genuine questions are being raised about how color affects us, how religious art affects pain thresholds, how art content affects rates of healing, etc. In addition, there has been a rise in literature of both artists and therapists (physical and psychological) who champion the role of art in healing, and who are devel- oping new ideas and philosophies in this direction.
Some unconventional directions in this field will be examined in this work. Chief among them are the role of alchemy in art history and healing, the use of masks, especially in tribal societies, in healing, the use of mandalas and mazes in healing, the study and use of energy healing and its role in art and healing, and even the use of gardening and landscape design in such.
Other methods of art and healing that could be considered include art and shamanism, art and Buddhistic healing practices, even the use of tattooing on the body.
Also influential in this work is the experience of my mentor, Professor Gilah Hirsch, who, through the practice of her own art, was able to overcome the adverse physical and emotional damage that resulted from her involvement in a near-fatal car accident. While not specifically cited in this work, her influence pervades it like a protective aura.
This work is also a project, an art project. It includes projects in the media of pen & ink, oil painting, and intaglio (etching). It reflects the personal and artistic growth of the author and artist over a period of several years, as the research he did into the topic of interest fatefully influenced the art he was doing in tandem with the research. Inevitably, a first person viewpoint occasionally creeps into the work, as the art is of a personal nature, and because of the author’s own personal health history and sometimes para- normal experiences, no third person accounting can possibly suffice. It is hoped that the intertwining of personal art, research and personal experience results in a serious work that may benefit others in the near future.