An Impressionist Afternoon Teatime
Art is a great way to self-healing. Here’s a mini guide I created for making an Impressionist Afternoon Tea for healing. You can take it as a mini session of art therapy blending with mindfulness. (Audio is available!）
benefits
The benefits of such an art therapy style Afternoon Teatime:
- Reduce Stress
- Calming Effects
- Open Savory Experience
- Unlock Your Hidden Artist
- Emotional healing
- Connect with Classic Souls
Steps
- First, Invest in a few sketchbooks (not apps on iPad or Android), just PAPER. You can choose one to be your food journal or another art journal.
- Book yourself an Afternoon Tea Time, even in your ”modern office”. During this tea time, you are your most important guest, so you need to treat yourself as a VIP.
- Give it a lovely name.
- If you love afternoon tea, make mini tea sandwiches/finger foods for yourself as a” warm-up”. The key is to use your hands and learn about the art of slowing down.
- When you make food or tea, observe the color/texture, and indulge yourself like a child.
- Then, try to sketch down something freely on the paper, even just drawing your hand-made tea/food with simple lines…
- Based on your drawing, you can borrow some color ideas from Impressionists’ paintings. For example, you can draw a virtual cupcake called ”Monet’s Water Lilly Cupcake”, or create an “Impressionist Mood Board”.
color inspiration
The color inspiration may come from the following artists:
- Claude Monet
- Edgar Degas
- Paul Cezanne
- Camille Pissarro
I created this Impressionism Mood board as an example.
(Impressionist Mood Board by: DuDu Sunny)
Finally, you can sit back, savor your tea sandwiches, smell the aroma of tea, and admire your art. In this case, the savory journey is completely opened and unlocked.
If you like, you can invite a close friend to join in this journey, otherwise, just enjoy such a beautiful solitude.
Impressionism and Art Therapy
The relationship between Impressionism and art therapy is an interesting one. Both are deeply rooted in the exploration of emotions, perception, and subjective experience.
Impressionism, which emerged in the late 19th century, was a revolutionary art movement. It prioritized capturing the fleeting impressions of light, color, and atmosphere in the natural world. Impressionist artists such as Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Edgar Degas sought to evoke mood and emotion through their use of loose brushwork, vibrant color, and emphasis on sensory experience.
Similarly, art therapy emphasizes the power of artistic expression to tap into emotions, memories, and subconscious thoughts. Through the process of creating art, individuals can explore and communicate their inner experiences in a symbolic and metaphorical language.
similarity between them
Here are some ways in which Impressionism and art therapy intersect:
- Emotional expression: Both Impressionism and art therapy value the expression of emotions through art. Impressionist artists often sought to convey the mood and atmosphere of a scene, evoking feelings of joy, serenity, melancholy, or nostalgia. Similarly, in art therapy, individuals use art-making to express their emotions, whether consciously or unconsciously.
- Sensory experience: Impressionist paintings are known for their emphasis on sensory perception, capturing the play of light, color, and movement in the natural world. Art therapy often engages the senses as well. It encourages individuals to explore different art materials, textures, and techniques to evoke sensory experiences and stimulate emotional expression.
- Subjectivity and interpretation: Impressionism challenged traditional notions of representation and realism, emphasizing the subjective experience of the artist and viewer. Likewise, art therapy recognizes the subjective nature of artistic expression and interpretation, honoring each individual’s unique perspective and creative process.
- Healing and well-being: While Impressionism was primarily an art movement, its emphasis on capturing fleeting moments of beauty and tranquility can evoke feelings of calmness, relaxation, and introspection. These are often associated with therapeutic benefits. Art therapy, on the other hand, is explicitly focused on promoting healing, self-discovery, and emotional well-being through artistic expression.
While Impressionism and art therapy serve different purposes and contexts, they share common themes of emotional expression, sensory perception, and subjective experience. Both offer opportunities for individuals to engage with art as a means of exploring and communicating their inner world, fostering self-awareness, and promoting holistic well-being.
Ancient Stories about Art Therapy
The formal practice of art therapy emerged in the 20th century. There are historical examples of cultures using artistic expression for therapeutic purposes dating back thousands of years. Here are a few examples:
ancient egypt
In ancient Egypt, art played a significant role in religious rituals, healing practices, and funerary customs. Hieroglyphic inscriptions and tomb paintings depict scenes of individuals engaged in activities such as music, dance, and visual arts, which were believed to have spiritual and healing properties. Artifacts such as amulets and talismans were also used for protective and therapeutic purposes.
ancient greece
In ancient Greece, art and theater were integral parts of religious festivals and healing rituals. Greek physicians such as Hippocrates recognized the therapeutic benefits of music, drama, and visual arts in promoting physical and mental well-being. The ancient Greek concept of catharsis, as articulated by Aristotle, suggests that experiencing emotional release and purification through artistic expression can have therapeutic effects.
indigenous cultures
Many indigenous cultures around the world have long-standing traditions of using art and storytelling for healing and spiritual growth. For example, Native American tribes practice rituals such as sand painting, dreamcatcher weaving, and mask-making as forms of healing and ceremony. These artistic practices are believed to connect individuals with the natural world, ancestors, and spiritual forces.
traditional Chinese artistic practices
Traditional Chinese incorporates artistic practices such as calligraphy, painting, and qigong (a form of movement meditation) as therapeutic modalities. These practices are believed to balance the flow of qi (life force energy) in the body, promote harmony between mind and body, and support overall well-being.
While the specific techniques and beliefs vary across cultures, these examples demonstrate the universal human impulse to use art and creativity as a means of healing, expression, and connection with the sacred. The principles underlying these ancient practices continue to inspire contemporary approaches to art therapy and holistic healing.
The reason behind art therapy
Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that utilizes creative expression to promote emotional healing, self-discovery, and personal growth. It’s based on the belief that the process of creating art can facilitate communication, insight, and understanding of one’s thoughts and feelings, even when verbal expression is difficult.
Nonverbal Expressions
Art therapy provides a nonverbal means of expressing thoughts, feelings, and experiences that may be difficult to articulate verbally. For individuals who struggle to verbalize their emotions, art-making offers a tangible outlet for self-expression and communication.
symbolic representation
Art allows individuals to create symbolic representations of their inner world. Through colors, shapes, lines, and imagery, individuals can convey complex emotions, memories, and subconscious thoughts in a tangible and concrete form.
cathartic release
Engaging in art-making can facilitate emotional release and catharsis. By externalizing internal experiences through art, individuals may experience a sense of relief, release pent-up emotions, and gain perspective on their feelings.
self-reflection and insight
Art therapy encourages individuals to reflect on their artwork and explore its meaning. Through guided reflection and dialogue with a therapist or through personal introspection, individuals can gain insight into their emotions, triggers, and underlying psychological patterns.
empowerment and agency
Art therapy promotes a sense of agency and empowerment by providing individuals with a creative outlet for self-expression and self-discovery. Through the process of art-making, individuals can reclaim a sense of control over their emotions and narrative.
integration and processing
Art therapy helps individuals integrate and process difficult emotions and experiences. By externalizing and transforming inner turmoil into tangible artwork, individuals can begin to make sense of their feelings, work through unresolved issues, and move towards healing and resolution.
enhanced self-awareness & coping skills
Engaging in art therapy can enhance self-awareness, emotional regulation, and coping skills. Through the exploration of different art materials, techniques, and themes, individuals can develop new ways of coping with stress, managing emotions, and navigating life challenges.
Overall, art therapy harnesses the creative process as a therapeutic tool for emotional healing, self-exploration, and personal growth. It offers a safe and supportive space for individuals to express themselves, process their emotions, and embark on a journey towards greater well-being and resilience.
Who can benefit from art therapy?
Art therapy is a versatile approach that can be adapted to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual, regardless of age, background, or ability. It is not just for individuals facing specific challenges; it can also benefit anyone interested in personal growth, self-exploration, and creativity. Engaging in art-making can deepen self-awareness, foster self-expression, and promote holistic well-being.
On the other hand, art therapy may be particularly helpful for those facing certain challenges or seeking specific forms of support. Here are some groups of people who can particularly benefit from art therapy:
individuals experiencing mental health issues
Art therapy can be beneficial for individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, addiction, eating disorders, and other mental health concerns. It provides a nonverbal outlet for expressing emotions and processing difficult experiences.
children and adolescents
Art therapy is especially effective for children and teens who may have difficulty expressing themselves verbally. It can help them communicate their thoughts and feelings, build self-esteem, and develop coping skills.
survivors of trauma
Art therapy can be a valuable tool for individuals who have experienced trauma, such as abuse, violence, or loss. Creating art can facilitate healing, promote self-awareness, and empower survivors to reclaim their sense of agency.
individuals with chronic illness
Art therapy can provide a creative outlet for individuals living with chronic illness or pain. It can help them cope with the emotional and physical challenges of their condition, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.
seniors
Art therapy can benefit older adults by promoting cognitive function, stimulating memory recall, and fostering social connection. It can also provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment during retirement years.
individuals navigating life transitions
Art therapy can support individuals going through major life changes such as divorce, career transitions, relocation, or retirement. It can help them explore their identity, navigate uncertainty, and find new sources of meaning and direction.
However, for these groups of people, if they find it challenging to maintain mental and emotional well-being, please consider seeking professional help if needed. As I mentioned above, this article is only for educational and entertainment purposes.
Incorporate art therapy into daily life
Broadly speaking, you may incorporate art therapy into daily life in the following way:
- Set aside time for art: Dedicate a specific time each day for creative expression. It doesn’t have to be a long period; even just 15-30 minutes can be beneficial.
- Choose your medium: Select a creative medium that you enjoy working with, whether it’s painting, drawing, sculpting, writing, or any other form of artistic expression.
- Create a safe space: Find a quiet and comfortable space where you can focus on your art without distractions. This could be a corner of your home or a designated art studio if you have one.
- Express yourself: Use your chosen medium to express your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Don’t worry about creating something “perfect” or “beautiful.” Focus on expressing yourself authentically.
- Reflect on your art: After completing your art session, take some time to reflect on what you’ve created. Especially pay attention to any emotions, memories, or insights that arise during the process.
- Journaling: Consider keeping a journal alongside your art practice to record your thoughts and feelings before, during, and after each session. Writing can help deepen your understanding of your artwork and the underlying emotions it represents.
- Seek guidance if needed: If you’re struggling with certain emotions or issues, consider working with a trained art therapist who can provide guidance and support.
- Be gentle with yourself: Remember that art therapy is a process, and it’s okay to encounter challenges or setbacks along the way. Be kind and patient with yourself as you explore and grow through your artistic practice.
Whether you’re using it to manage stress, explore your emotions, or simply nurture your creativity, the key is to approach it with openness, curiosity, and compassion.
Have fun!
FAQ Session
What is impressionism art?
Impressionism is an art movement that emerged in the late 19th century, primarily in France. It’s characterized by a focus on capturing the fleeting effects of light and atmosphere through loose brushwork, vibrant color, and an emphasis on the sensory experience of the moment. Impressionist artists often painted en plein air (outdoors), depicting scenes from everyday life with an emphasis on spontaneity and immediacy. Key figures include Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas, and Berthe Morisot. Impressionism revolutionized the art world, paving the way for modern art movements and challenging traditional notions of representation.
What is art therapy?
Art therapy uses creative expression for emotional healing and personal growth. It helps communicate thoughts and feelings when words fall short.
What is the history of art therapy?
Emerging in the 20th century, art therapy found early advocates like Adrian Hill and Margaret Naumburg, who recognized art’s therapeutic potential.
Who were influential figures in art therapy?
Adrian Hill, Margaret Naumburg, Edith Kramer, and Hanna Kwiatkowska pioneered art therapy, integrating it into clinical practice.
How did art therapy gain recognition?
In the 1960s and 1970s, pioneers like Edith Kramer and Margaret Naumburg propelled art therapy into mainstream recognition, forming professional organizations like the AATA.
Where is art therapy used today?
Art therapy is widely used in mental health clinics, hospitals, schools, prisons, and community centers, reflecting its efficacy in promoting holistic well-being.
Thank you for reading! I hope this article inspire your new journey!
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