ABSTRACT
Introduction: The chapter presents an Open Studio expressive and therapeutic art experience with adolescents who are assisted in residential and semi-residential care programs taking place in Imola (Italy). Approach: The Open Studio experience comprised group sessions facilitated by an art therapist and supported by educators. The sessions were held in a natural environment, both outdoor and indoor, in the premises of a greenhouse. Participants were free to explore themes and art techniques of their own choice, using classic art materials (e.g., gouache, watercolour, pastels, crayons, ink, clay) and natural art materials (e.g., pebbles, leaves, sand, dust). Outcomes: The experience gave them the opportunity to explore and express their creative and imaginative space, benefiting from the contact with natural spaces and making touch with the “green surroundings” as a welcoming place. Each participant gave voice to their emotions and visions through art to safely confront and manage differences and divergences, thereby enhancing their relationships with their peers. Implications: Inspired and informed by the methodological frameworks of the Open Studio approach to art therapy and nature-based therapies, this experience contributes to the consolidation – especially in the Italian context – of good practices of psychosocial support to adolescents, with a focus on wellbeing, inclusion, and participation.
