ABSTRACT

This chapter discusses the images and objects of the group interactive art therapy. The objects belong to the group: they have reflected its process as well as the process of each individual. In fact the interactive art therapy group has usually produced a large number of objects and the symbolic selves. The interactions between members at this stage are often very moving and lead people gradually out of one stage and into another. Sorting and reflecting on the work, tidying and cleaning the room, breaks the spell of the powerful group process and enables each member to claim back and take responsibility for their contribution to the work and to the changes in their lives. The ending has to include the objects. Some have lost their symbolic content during the group; a picture that was so frightening or difficult to deal with on the first day may be seen in a different perspective at the end.