Art Therapy, Race and Culture

The book is a stimulating and inspiring collection which explores the often contentious themes of race, racism and culture in relation to the experience of art therapy, in a constructive way. Contributors examine the impact of racial perceptions in their own experience, their clients' lives, and on the interaction of therapist and client. While therapists are increasingly working with multi-ethnic client groups, there is a paucity of material available for them to develop approaches, which meet diverse cultural and racial needs. Art Therapy, Race and Culture is a stimulating and inspiring collection which explores the often contentious themes of race, racism and culture in relation to the experience of art therapy, in a positive and constructive way. Contributors examine the impact of racial perceptions in their own experience, their clients' lives, and on the interaction of therapist and client. The potential of art therapy as a force of liberation, and art therapists as cultural activists, is explored. Cultural differences in meanings applied to 'colour' and to the nature of art are also discussed. Illustrated with line drawings and photographs, the book presents work, ideas and theories based on the practical experiences of therapists from many different backgrounds and their work with clients from equally diverse origins.