Case Studies

Case Study 1 :
INDIVIDUAL WITH QUADRIPLEGIA RENEWS
HER SPIRIT THROUGH THERAPEUTIC ART


           
Unable to m
ove her limbs, she quietly holds a paintbrush in her mouth. Her style of painting is displayed through long brushstrokes of watercolor. She  nature paintings were reminiscent of her frequent visits to the eastern shore riding horses. During each session “Classical” music set the atmosphere for the creative process. 

Throu
gh The Feather's Touch therapeutic art sessions she
was able to  establish control with holding the paintbrush in her mouth as well as strengthening muscles of the neck, enhancing concentration and dexterity. Her earlier paintings showed unintended marks as she was timid with handling the paintbrush.

As the sessions progressed weekly, she was able to gain control of each brushstroke. Her later paintings displayed more detail and creative expression. It became evident that she no longer focused on the disability, but more on the things that brought her joy. It was rewarding to observe the restoration of her self-worth.
   
Case Study 2
:

WOMAN IN HER 90'S USES COLOR TO ILLUSTRATE
FEELINGS ABOUT HER DECLINING HEALTH


Her paintings embodied beautiful gradations of reds, yellows and orange. Large expressive brushstrokes covered the canvas. Her excitement and joy for art displayed in each painting. Surprisingly, during a routine visit to
the facility, her usual festive spirit appeared dim. She was silent and sitting still in a chair. As she painted,  her brushstrokes were small and random. Shades of gray, black and brown now occupied her new work of art.

It became evident that she utilized color to communicate feelings about a recent fall earlier in the week.  Her previous paintings were lively with bright colors, which signify contentment. Her later paintings that displayed gray, black and brown indicated a sense of gloom / sadness.  From these observations, color plays an essential component in therapeutic art sessions.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

© 2006-2013 The Feather's Touch, LLC.
The Feather's Touch and The Feather's Touch logo
used on this site are owned or licensed by The Feather's Touch, LLC. All rights reserved.