ABSTRACT
Mask making and playing is an artistic and psychodynamic creative modality addressing individual and social identity as well as gender issues in both a respectful and deep way. Associating art, drama, music, writing and dancing to myths and philosophy through masks offers a complete therapeutic process. In traumatic contexts the human is mistreated so that a gap might occur between body and psyche. The therapists’ work is about to help authentic feelings arise and prevent relapse. Examining gender issues helps integrating the plurality of human identities/personalities as well as the feedback process between inner and outer spaces. Arts therapies focusing on the creative psychodynamic process implement a comprehensive approach – with mask as tool as well as symbol of human complexity.
Some examples of gender issues in clinical, social and educational settings are shared to show how the clients’ creativity and well-being progresses from ‘art as mask’ to ‘mask in art’ and further on to ‘mask in art therapy’, including consideration of the therapist’s own transference. Self-repair, self-esteem and self-assertion are general human needs. The therapists’ non-directivity and humility are central for a humanistic vision of life and work.
