ABSTRACT
The Preamble to the American Art Therapy Association’s Ethical Principles for Art Therapists states that “art therapists are guided in their decision-making by core values that affirm basic human rights.” Similar to the self-initiated behavior observed in the Monet gallery, studio spaces invite opportunities for independent self-reflection grounded in the democratic practice of expressive equality. Hierarchy flattens as expertise is shared judiciously in unfolding artist-to-artist relationships. The chapter describes questions and concerns faced by our students and lead art mentors who work as artists in the Naropa Community Art Studio (NCAS). Within this workspace, the environment is therapeutic, but certainly not clinical. Art therapy services, whether in the studio or a psychotherapy setting, are determined by where one is working and the use of the theoretical orientation best able to support that particular client within that specific setting. NCAS provides local marginalized populations, from teens to older adults, with access to a thriving studio environment and free art materials.
