Jane Griffin

Being with

Artwork size: A3 framed

Artwork medium: Watercolour and ink on paper

The therapist’s role in being with the young person is to be with them as they explore their own journeying, stories and feelings. Facilitating creative experiences which expand understanding is an honour. It is often joyous, often challenging, The colours and lines in this artwork represent the complexity of the work, the flashes of happiness, the dips into sadness, and the connection sparking both between art therapist and child, and between ideas within the therapists’ thoughts.

Working with refugee background young people in schools is a valuable application of expressive art therapy. It is free for the kids, there are no transport or stigma issues, and it is seen as a normal part of school life. I have been so pleased with the success of the work in schools and with my good luck in having a career as an art therapist.