Artomotive

Right Side Up was contracted to provide art therapy and creative coaching sessions with young adults in East Gippsland who may be characterised by a range of social dysfunctions including: marginalisation from the community, low self esteem, bullying (both bullies and victims), unstable home environment, poverty, poor literacy and numeracy skills, substance abuse, cultural and racial intolerance, self harm and, a juvenile justice history to name a few.

Based on the initial brief to create an exhibition using recycled materials, RSU built on the concept of using recycled car parts to create art. The project started with a trip to the scrap metal yard and car wreckers. The aim was to encourage them to think outside the square. Exercise their creativity and gather bits and pieces of cars with from which they would create art.

The results of this project were exhibited in the East Gippsland Art Gallery, July 18-29, 2008. Artist profiles and their story or symbolic reference to cars are displayed alongside their artwork.

Mayor of East Gippsland Shire, Mendy Urie, officially opened the exhibition. She expressed satisfaction at witnessing the stories these young adults shared in their profiles and artwork. "It's a wonderful opportunity to give these young people a voice," she said. "We can learn more about our community by listening to a variety of stories. And I encourage any initiative that gives voice to those who are not always heard."

A popular choice of creation was hubcap art.


The circular theme continued . . .




Some chose larger canvases for their creations:

Autumn Workshops

Visual Story Board
It’s no secret! What we focus on is what we move toward. Take the dream or vision that’s in your heart and move it forward into reality. In this half-day workshop combine found images and key words to create your own visual story board. This powerful tool helps create momentum to move in the direction of your dreams.
Sunday May 4 9.30 – 1.30

Mask Making
Gain self-understanding through the creation of 2D and 3D masks. Experiment with the use of paint, pastels and raw clay sculpture. No art experience necessary, just a willingness to explore your creative self in a supportive environment.
Sunday May 18 9.30 – 1.30

Body Mapping
This workshop for women provides a safe and supportive environment to tune into your body’s innate wisdom. A creativity coach and therapist will guide you through a series of visualisation, music, movement and creative art activities. Discover resources to improve your total wellbeing.
Sunday June 1 9.30 – 1.30

Creative Block Be Gone!
Are you a writer, artist, designer, florist, baker, or business owner who’s lost your creative spark? Participate in some creative free-play designed to stimulate your “intuitive” right-brain. This half day workshop may include music, movement, painting, paper snowball fights . . . whatever it takes to help you beat that block and rediscover your creative mojo.
Sunday June 15 9.30 – 1.30

These courses are being offered as part of the Term 2 Lifestyle program at Community College East Gippsland. For further details go to http://www.cceg.vic.edu.au/ and click on the lifestyle courses picture.

Art therapy for body image

Art therapy is a powerful modality to provide insight, self understanding, and a re-envisioning of oneself. This video is an excellent example of the way art therapy is used to help people who struggle with body image and other related issues.