Creative expression has served as an emotional outlet for centuries. The formalization of art therapy is a more recent development.
In the 1940s, some innovative therapists began using art and its creation as a structured therapeutic practice. Today, there are over 8,000 certified art therapists certified by the Art Therapy Credentials Board with millions of people using the arts for therapeutic purposes in both formal and informal settings.
Creative Processing is a special exhibition centered on the therapeutic use of creative arts within and beyond the clinical setting. Visitors can expect to learn about the history of art as therapy, including the pioneers who helped establish it as a formal practice, the various techniques and mediums of art used in healing practices, and ways we can all engage in art as a therapeutic outlet.
This exhibition presents pieces created by community partners to connect with both their emotional and physical selves; some are from a formal art therapy practice, but many are not. There are many ways to engage in creative practices to process emotion.
Admission to this exhibition is included with your Mütter Museum ticket.
This exhibition is made possible with support from The Elaine and Henry Berger Initiative for Mental Health.