Proposal for a Studio-based Art Therapy Education

Abstract

This paper explores the role of artmaking in art therapy education and proposes a studio-based model of education as one possible way to resolve the split between "art" and "therapy" in Master's level art therapy programs. The notion of the open studio as a model of training and practice has been promoted by art therapists who are concerned about the loss of focus on artmaking that occurs when art therapists work in traditional clinical settings. Professional education in architecture utilizes a studio format for education in which art, theory, and technical matters are integrated rather than seen as incompatible. This model of education for reflective practice is explored for its possible use as a strategy for integrating art, psychology, and clinical expertise in art therapy education.