Using Natural Materials in Art Therapy to Address Accessibility and Well-Being in Low-Income Older Adults

Abstract

This study investigated the implementation of natural materials during the artmaking processes in an older adult art therapy group (eco-art therapy), and its effects on their well-being and the role of accessibility in their lives. An open-studio approach was applied to emphasize the artmaking process being driven by the participants independently, while also sharing a collaborative space and creating community with each other. There was an exception to this condition in this study, being that the participants were encouraged to ask for assistance in using unconventional materials in their artwork if they felt they needed it. The participants were older adults, aged approximately 40-60 years old, who had experienced being unhoused and/or came from low-income backgrounds. Many of the participants lived with chronic physical and mental health conditions and are currently living in subsidized housing. Each art therapy directive was designed to serve a particular purpose or challenge the participants depending on their comfortability and familiarity with specific visual arts and natural materials. The data collected were pre- and post-process objective, observational notes created by this author. Findings suggest that the dual implementation of the visual arts with natural materials positively impacted group participants, highlighting several themes; 1) Art as a Therapeutic Process Through the Engagement of Natural Materials 2) Community and Social Connection, 3) Mental Health and Reflection, and 4) Shifting Organizational Structures and Its Impact. This exploration provided an opportunity to practice an intermodal and holistic approach within a group setting, whilst harnessing the healing capabilities of nature-based therapy and mediums. Art therapists can begin to integrate these holistic practices and theories into their methodologies to better contain and support a client’s evolving needs