Art therapy offers a way to explore the impacts of violence by providing a safe, non-intrusive vehicle for the expression of emotions and thoughts. The strength of art therapy rests on its ability to help turn a client’s emotions and thoughts, that may be inexpressible through words alone, into something concrete and accessible.

In art therapy, clients use paint, clay and simple drawing materials to give physical form to their thoughts and feelings. Personal insights are explored and discussed as they pertain to any particular difficulties the client is experiencing.

Benefits of Art Therapy at the Centre

Art therapy is extremely helpful to clients of the Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Centre, because it:

• provides opportunities to express difficult emotions
• supports the recognition of grief and loss
• facilitates self-expression and communication, helping victims/survivors to reclaim their voice
• offers a non-threatening way of sharing
• provides solace and support
• gives clients a tangible way of reconnecting to their bodies
• provides a way to soothe and relax oneself

What is "Art Not Violence"?

The Art Not Violence Project is a collaboration of Women's College Hospital, the Women's College Research Institute (WCRI), and the University of Toronto. Our aim is to create much-needed visibility for the issue of violence, especially violence against women and children.

In 2000, Art Not Violence initiated a postcard and poster campaign to educate staff, patients and the public about the pressing need to find creative solutions to end violence, and the important role art therapy plays in treatment. This institution-wide campaign featured art made by art therapy clients in various programs operating at Women's College Hospital.

View images from the Art Not Violence program in this virtual gallery.