ABSTRACT

Art is a basic form of communication, used by people through the ages to express ideas, feelings, beliefs and shared perceptions that are real or fantastic. It is an instinctive form of communication that begins spontaneously in childhood, but often appears to dwindle or become constrained as one gets older. The written or verbal word and technology appear to dominate the communication process of adults. Finding new and effective ways to communicate is vitally important to someone with limited communication skills, as well as those who care for them. Art allows people to communicate in diverse and holistic ways, and must never be underestimated as a means of enabling people to explore and develop individualistic and creative communication tools. This activity is an opportunity for facilitators to empower vulnerable artists to explore and find the means to send out messages through art, with confidence and humour.