Full Circle: Toward an Aboriginal Model of Art Therapy

Abstract

This qualitative research project uses historical and theoretical data along with elements of autoethnography in an attempt to understand traditional Aboriginal healing philosophies with a focus on the Medicine Wheel. I propose a model of art therapy that is based on the explored traditional Aboriginal healing philosophies as well as the eclectic approach to art therapy I adopt. This eclectic approach to art therapy draws from art psychotherapy, existential art therapy, and art therapy’s link with spirituality. The proposed model of Aboriginal art therapy consists of four principles focusing on the Natural World, Interconnectedness, Balance and Art Making as a Practice. The historical context of Aboriginal mental health in Canada provides the background to the importance of this research. In exploring the existing literature on traditional Aboriginal healing philosophies I also explore my personal identity as an Inuit descendant through artwork, ritual and poetry.

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