Through my studies and experiences I have been able to witness first-hand the effect the creative process has on both children and adults living with conditions that render them either physically or mentally impaired.
In the Fall of 2009 my own creative process took a dramatic change as I shifted from creating for myself to helping others to create for themselves. From this experience I have released both a series of products and a ninety page resource guide to help children living with cerebral palsy to benefit from the creative process.
(CP)^2: Cerebral Palsy and the Creative Process and the products associated with it was born out of months of research, invention, experimentation, testing, innovation and problem solving. The products are typical items that able bodied people take for granted everyday and completely reformatted to be CP friendly. Items include crayons, grips for utensils, paintgloves, sensory quilts, etc. and can be purchased online.
Over the summer of 2010, I created and completed an art therapy internship at a nursing home local to me. Thought it was unlike anything I've ever been a part of, it was one of the most fulfilling things I've ever experienced. I worked with people from all walks of life, all ages, and all skill levels.
From the experience, I have created a therapy routine to get people both interested in, and effective in using the creative process to benefit themselves and others. Thought I'm still refining this therapy routine, it is something I plan on using for many experiences to come.