About this artwork

Art Therapy Lesson Plan by Jihan Latimer

PA Core Standard
4.12
Analyse and interpret a philosophical position identified in works of art.

Big Idea
Using Surrealism and Expressionism in art to manage emotions, due to complex trauma.

Essential Questions
How can Art Therapy solve the root of my trauma or emotion? How can my images determine change in emotion?

Enduring Understanding
How to creatively use art as Art Therapy to sort through emotions.

Student Objectives
Appreciate the healing benefit of art and therapy, using the Triangular Relationship. Some students may use this lesson with a therapist to sort through these emotions, others can complete the lesson independently.

Performance Task
Read art through identification of geometric line and shape patterns.

Other Evidence
Understand the theory behind art therapy and how to apply it.

Learning Plan
Students will observe and analyse 3 images from David Edwards "Art Therapy" 2nd Edition (figure 1.9, 1.10 and 1.11), using just the images, not reading the material. The goal is to use the visual art to sort through emotion. Students are to answer the following questions: How does each piece of art represent a survival strategy? Describe the emotion of being withdrawn in each piece of art. How does each image evoque an emotion? Students are to use KWL charts and Graphic Organizers to answer the questions, while observing and analyzing the art.
Links for KWL charts/Graphic Organizers
https://www.hmhco.com/blog/free-graphic-organizer-templates