I first smudged the canvas with palo Santo. I painted with the ash. I cleansed before and after to purify the canvas.
This piece explores the concept of an “exorcism” through art. We often run from the shadow parts of ourselves. Carl Jung explored these concepts, and I believe that shadow integration can help us cultivate deeper self-compassion.
In the creation of this piece, I “became” my worst nightmare through my art — I role-played as the abuser. I hit the canvas. I cut it with a knife. I released anger on the fabric with my bare hands — dancing with each wisp of pain. It was incredibly cathartic.
I used a combination of painting with my bare hands using acrylic, dripped wax upon the canvas, and used other unconventional art tools (i.e. whips) to create texture and aid in a cathartic release of emotion. As a survivor of childhood abuse, I often internalize anger, and have had difficulty expressing this emotion. Through the safety of art making, it allows me an outlet to express these more repressed parts of myself—letting the canvas carry the weight of the embodied memories.
Dancing with Your Demons is a personal example, yet collective exploration, of how we can each bring tenderness and light to our most shameful parts. It also draws upon Internal Family Systems (IFS) theory, and how we can tend to the different facets of our identity.
*18% of the profits from this piece will go towards the development of a healing arts center for children. As an art therapist in training, it is my mission to bring the healing power of art to as many children and adolescents as possible.
***This original art piece will be hand delivered or shipped depending on your unique needs. Please inquire privately for more details on the arrangement***
sarah@artisportal.com
I first smudged the canvas with palo Santo. I painted with the ash. I cleansed before and after to purify the canvas.
This piece explores the concept of an “exorcism” through art. We often run from the shadow parts of ourselves. Carl Jung explored these concepts, and I believe that shadow integration can help us cultivate deeper self-compassion.
In the creation of this piece, I “became” my worst nightmare through my art — I role-played as the abuser. I hit the canvas. I cut it with a knife. I released anger on the fabric with my bare hands — dancing with each wisp of pain. It was incredibly cathartic.
I used a combination of painting with my bare hands using acrylic, dripped wax upon the canvas, and used other unconventional art tools (i.e. whips) to create texture and aid in a cathartic release of emotion. As a survivor of childhood abuse, I often internalize anger, and have had difficulty expressing this emotion. Through the safety of art making, it allows me an outlet to express these more repressed parts of myself—letting the canvas carry the weight of the embodied memories.
Dancing with Your Demons is a personal example, yet collective exploration, of how we can each bring tenderness and light to our most shameful parts. It also draws upon Internal Family Systems (IFS) theory, and how we can tend to the different facets of our identity.
*18% of the profits from this piece will go towards the development of a healing arts center for children. As an art therapist in training, it is my mission to bring the healing power of art to as many children and adolescents as possible.
***This original art piece will be hand delivered or shipped depending on your unique needs. Please inquire privately for more details on the arrangement***
sarah@artisportal.com