A Natural Response to a Natural Disaster: The Art of Crisis in Nepal (Une réponse naturelle à une catastrophe naturelle : art de crise au Népal) (Linton, 2017)
Linton Jess.
Canadian Art Therapy Association Journal 2017;30(1): 31-40.
This article explores the implementation and use of art therapy in the context of emergency and immediate post-emergency phases after a natural disaster. Skill sharing and support sessions were delivered to national and international mental health and well-being professionals living in Nepal both during and immediately after the devastating earthquakes in 2015. A range of sessions for children were offered within United Nations humanitarian disaster relief agencies, Child Friendly Spaces and other community-led initiatives. Through consultation with the local community, natural materials were incorporated into the therapeutic response to this natural disaster. There was an interest in whether working with natural media would support recovery and resilience, particularly through regaining control and reconnecting with the earth, the place we naturally call home. Potential benefits are discussed, drawing on wider art therapy literature and contemporary literature around working with the arts outdoors and working with natural media.