ABSTRACT

Through the author’s experiences, investigations and discussions with artists, art therapists and inmates from around the world, Art and Art Therapy with the Imprisoned: Re-Creating Identity comprehensively explores the efficacy, methods, and outcomes of art and art therapy within correctional settings.

The text begins with a theoretical and historical overview of art in prisons as a precursor to exploring the benefits of art therapy, followed by a deeper exploration of art therapy as a primary focus for wellness and mental health inside penitentiaries. Relying on several theoretical perspectives, results of empirical research studies, and case vignettes and illustrations gleaned from over 25 years of clinical and programmatic experience, this book argues why art therapy is so beneficial within prisons.

This comprehensive guide is essential reading for professionals in the field, as well as students of sociology, criminology, art theory, art therapy, and psychology who wish to explore the benefits of art therapy with inmate populations.

chapter |20 pages

Introduction

Identity in Isolation: A Beginning

chapter 1|30 pages

Art in Prison

A Natural By-Product

chapter 2|13 pages

Rehumanizing through Art

chapter 3|15 pages

Drawing Time Revisited

The Benefits of Art Therapy in Prison

chapter 4|17 pages

Making Something Out of Nothing

Materials and Directives for the Correctional Milieu

chapter 5|23 pages

Deepening the Exploration through Research

chapter 6|12 pages

Nurturing Identity

Art Therapy in Women’s Correctional Settings

chapter 7|15 pages

Reversing the Delinquent Label

Art Therapy With Juvenile Justice Populations

chapter 8|13 pages

The Realities of Professional Dissonance

Maintaining Boundaries Within the Tensions of Ethics, Morals, and the Law

chapter |4 pages

Epilogue

Art Therapy in Prison Is Social Justice: 1 The Last [for Now] Rallying Cry