From the psyche to the canvas:
Exhibition explores role of art therapy in mental health recovery
By Sadeq Dehqan
Staff writer
In an inspirational approach to psychotherapy, Roozbeh Hospital, the first psychiatric and mental disorders center in Tehran, is hosting an outdoor exhibition featuring watercolor paintings created by a group of patients with psychiatric disorders.
Fatemeh Arabshah, the exhibition curator and superintendent of one of the sections of the hospital, told Iran Daily, explaining that 70 watercolor paintings from 20 patients with psychiatric disorders are on view.
The exhibition opened on February 27 and will end today.
Arabshah highlighted the significance of art therapy in the therapeutic process for psychiatric patients, emphasizing the integration of creative processes with psychological therapeutic techniques.
Art therapy, particularly painting, plays a role in helping individuals suffering from conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorders to express their emotions and thoughts, ultimately reaching a state of calmness.
The curator elaborated on the positive impact of painting instruction as an art therapy technique used in the hospital to improve the mental well-being of patients.
“Painting not only contributes to a sense of peace and uplifts the spirits of ordinary individuals but also brings joy and tranquility to patients with psychiatric disorders, instilling in them a sense of usefulness.” She noted.
Arabshah continued, pointing out that through the paintings created by these patients, one could trace elements of their thoughts and emotions, such as joy, hope, peace, and even distress, reflected in the colors, shapes, and subjects of the artwork.
Regarding the social challenges faced by psychiatric patients, Arabshah explained that engagement in artistic activities, including painting, and other forms of art helps boost their self-confidence, revealing their talents and playing a crucial role in their therapeutic process.
The primary goal of organizing such art exhibitions for psychiatric patients, according to Arabshah, is to change society’s perception of these individuals as incapable, showcasing that psychiatric patients can succeed in various artistic and non-artistic fields.
Arabshah concluded by stating that another objective is to support the empowerment of psychiatric patients through the sale of their artworks, providing them with a sense of usefulness and belief in their ability to contribute to society.
Additionally, the proceeds from the sales will be allocated to improving the quality of psychiatric services offered to these patients.
Roozbeh Hospital is the oldest educational neurology and psychiatry hospital in the country and the Middle East, affiliated with Tehran University of Medical Sciences.