Since fall 2023, we have collaborated with UCLA|VA Family Wellbeing Center to bring mind/body healing to veterans through expressive arts.
Expressive Arts Group with Amber Cromwell
Art therapist Amber Cromwell, ATR-BC, LMFT, has been leading one of our groups and reflects here on the intentions and outcomes of the process:
(Veteran Participant) “Notice anything different? Look at how I’m able to use my hand again! I kind of didn’t go with the instructions, but this is how it came out.”
(Amber) “You did what was feeling right, and that’s exactly what you’re supposed to do.”
(Veteran Participant) “I used to feel really intimidated by art, but this is making me see it differently.”
“I begin each group by stating the objectives for our time together: to create a safe space for creativity and expression, to explore and practice mindfulness in a space free of judgment, to engage our senses and stay in the present moment. I let them know we won't actually do a lot of talking.
One of our main takeaways is to let go of the outcome and try a new way of expressing ourselves. I share that we are here to quiet the inner critic that pops up when something is new, unfamiliar, or familiar but out of our comfort zone.
My favorite part of the group is when the child-like sense of curiosity emerges through the art materials—like when I hear someone say, ‘Wow, this is relaxing.’ I spoke with a man who was joining the group for the third week in a row, and I asked him if he had been using his journal outside of the session. He opened it up to show me. I saw text filling the page with lines, shapes, color, and symbols dispersed throughout. A sight to behold for an art therapist! He said, ‘I know it's a little violent or aggressive but it feels like something I need to say.’ I taught him about the word ‘sublimation’ and how that is one of the pillars of the expressive arts. He shook his head and said, ‘Thank you, I have really appreciated this group.’ ”
For a closer look highlighting the importance of process over product in this work, view this short video.
Expressive Arts Group with Alysan Aachen Martinez
Drama therapist Alysan Aachen Martinez, MA, MSW-S, P-RDT, LCCE reflects on her experience of holding space in a separate ongoing workshop for veterans engaging in expressive arts:
"Our expressive arts group has evolved into somewhat of an open studio. What that means is we have created a workspace that fosters creativity by encouraging experimentation with the art supplies provided. We actively converse and share ideas to build community and encourage freedom of expression. We also have a book filled with art prompts for those who desire more structure and/or guidance. These art prompts are based in art therapy concepts; however, we are not providing therapy—rather processes that are therapeutic. 'Process over product' is something I often say.
This is a collage made using magazine clippings and ripped construction paper. Clippings are set out, participants look over clippings which in and of themselves promote connection and conversation, and then they construct something from it.
We do a lot of body mapping. Participants often discover where they are carrying pain or joy—connecting their emotions with a somatic experience. I have been told this process has assisted participants in receiving care from medical professionals and in therapy sessions by providing insight.
Rocks are painted and collected. Someone has misplaced our grassy rock garden or taken it? Sad.
This is from a participant that creates something new and elaborate every time he attends—he’s been with us for three years, almost every Tuesday!
This is from a participant who was in physical rehabilitation for paralysis of his right arm and hand, and this was his project for the day. Seems small, but it was a huge milestone.
One with watercolors that touches my heart."
Eager to give the group an opportunity to showcase their work outside the VA West Los Angeles, we were able to find a welcoming host at the Emerging Themes in Behavioral Health Conference at UCLA earlier this year. Here are a few examples of the final showcased art:
Note that all imagery in this piece are taken and shared with consent from the artists.