Exhibition Series on Art Therapy

Research began with the concept of the Living Museum, a term initially coined in New York by the psychologist Janos Marton and then brought to psychiatries of Switzerland. I investigated how artistic expression and visual symbols function in clinical contexts. Besides reading about trauma-informed art practices, I interviewed patients and artists about their perspectives.

The challenge was translating art therapeutic concepts into tangible experiences for exhibition visitors. In trying to strike a balance between using  accessible language and respecting the complex nature of mental health discourse, I developed an interactive framework of artworks, dance performances and panel discussions that invited visitors to experience rather than to observe. 

The concept of these exhibitions is taking into consideration how visual expression affects different states of mental health. Based on Janos Marton's philosophy of the "Living Museum" and Fernand Deligny's theories of non-verbal pedagogy, the art direction of this project included evidence-based psychological approaches for design choices. 

In collaboration with the

Living Museum Wil, I created a visual system that feels inclusive and intuitive. Curation and space design were experience oriented, inviting visitors to paint on canvases and engage in conversations about art therapy. 

Outcome:

I built a visual language that translates the complex discourse around art therapy into curated experiences for over 400 visitors.