Galley 1 - Fall 2001
Art as Communication

This art therapy exhibit was organized by members of the Miami-Dade Country Public Schools (M-DCPS) Clinical Art Therapy Department.  Each art work demonstrates the value of art as a safe and non-threatening avenue through which at-risk youth can communicate, express their pain and joy, and come closer to realizing their true potential.

The art work on display was created by students in programs for the Severely Emotionally Disturbed (SED) and the Emotionally Handicapped (EH) during small group or individual art therapy sessions. Whether they appear as disturbing or pleasing, every piece makes a statement, communicates a thought or feeling and reflects a process geared towards positive behavioral change.

The subject matter, media, range and intensity of emotion are as vast and varied as the personalities of these students who created them.  As mental health professionals trained in art and psychology, M-DCPS clinical art therapists use the creative process to help at risk students reconcile emotional conflicts which are impeding their ability to learn and function in the classroom.

As you view the exhibit, the short explanation posted for each art piece may help you understand what the students were communicating through their graphic expressions.

As you view the exhibit, click on the image to view a short explanation posted for each art piece which may help you understand what the students were communicating through their graphic expressions. Some of the students gave titles to their creations.

You may also select to view a PowerPoint Presentation for the entire gallery exhibit. / COMING SOON!