by Meg Hamilton, 3rd Year Student
As an art therapy graduate student I cannot tell you how many articles I’ve read about international art therapy work. The first art therapy conference I went to I only attended presentations about international work. The second one I went to I only attended presentations about international work or social justice work. Each time I left feeling inspired and dreaming about how I might contribute. Needless to say as I’m staring down the last few months before graduation I am beyond thrilled to have the opportunity to be a part of some of the international and social justice focused art therapy work. I can’t wait to see how what NCAS-I learns in Cambodia can be shared with art therapists everywhere. The International Art Therapy Organization supports the sharing of research, establishment of best practices, and promotes art therapy around the world. Check them out…
The International Art Therapy Organization (IATO) brings together art therapists, related professionals, and students involved in the fields of art therapy, therapeutic art making, and art for health and social transformation. Its purpose is to:
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Establish and maintain a global community for education, communication, and exchange of information on art therapy, therapeutic art making, and art for health and social transformation;
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Promote global understanding of art therapy through dissemination of leading edge news and development of media, online education, archives, and publications for its members and the public;
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Encourage public recognition of how art therapy makes a difference through development of opportunities to serve to others in need, enhance health, and transform lives;
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Advance collaborative research and program development among its members and affiliate groups. (from internationalarttherapy.org)
The incredible art therapists who have pioneered international art therapy work are deeply inspiring to us. We are looking forward to collaborating and sharing the work art therapists are doing all over the world. To learn more check out these sights:
www.internationalarttherapy.org
Art Therapy Without Borders: www.atwb.org
The Art Therapy Alliance: www.arttherapyalliance.org
Naropa Community Art Studio-International 