The Art for Wellbeing Book

COMING SOON! ART FOR WELLBEING, THE BOOK!

Lisa is very excited about this project, currently underway and hoping to be finished in the not too distant future. The book explains the theories and methods of Art for Wellbeing and the development of those theories and methods. The book begins with a reflective account of Lisa’s journey that has lead to the development of Art for Wellbeing, followed by a recount of the history and origins of art therapy and a comparison of art therapy and Art for Wellbeing, their similarities and differences. The Art for Wellbeing techniques are listed in the book, and the underlying theories, influences and perspectives are explained in detail. As part of the book, Lisa is currently conducting research with clients from community organisations that support those with depressive disorders, to document the effectiveness of the Art4Wellbeing program.

The Art4Wellbeing program is being run as an Arts and Mental Health program from 30th August to 15th of November 2017, to coincide with Mental Health Week in October. This program has received support by way of major sponsorship through a RADF Grant from Noosa Council, in partnership with Arts Queensland. Noosa Arts and Craft have also supported the program through discounted venue hire rates at Wallace House. Also, Tewantin Newsagency has discounted the Art Packs in support of the program. Participants will be part of a study, giving feedback at the end and another follow up 3 months later, to provide data on the effectiveness of the program and it’s methods. The results will be recorded in the Art for Wellbeing book, with participant identity protected. Lisa has seen the benefits with private clients, and also experienced these benefits first-hand. She is passionate about helping people overcome their depression through experiencing the healing and transformative power of art making, with the ultimate goal of increased wellbeing and positive change in all aspects of life.

Any organisations that may have clients who would be ideal participants in the study are encouraged to get in contact with Kaiviti TODAY! There may be opportunities to fund the program through private fundraising in the case that organisations are interested in the program but do not have sufficient funding. The main goal is to get this program out there to those who can benefit from it – this is not a profit-making venture; rather, a way to increased wellbeing and decreased rates of suicide in the wider community. Art for Wellbeing is Lisa’s way to help those who are in vulnerable positions and make a positive difference in the world.