Mending Through Metaphor: Art Therapy for Healing in Cancer Care (La métaphore pour se rétablir : l'art-thérapie pour guérir dans le traitement du cancer)

• Published in: Canadian Art Therapy Association journal Vol. 32; no. 2; pp. 86 - 94
• Main Author: Buday, Kathleen M.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Abingdon Routledge 03.07.2019; Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Subjects: Art therapy; Breast cancer; Metaphor; Phenomenology; Photograms
• ISSN: 0832-2473; 2377-360X
• DOI: 10.1080/08322473.2019.1603073

Coping with a life-threatening illness such as cancer presents a plethora of mental, physical, emotional and spiritual issues for those diagnosed. While group art therapy has been shown to aid in a person's healing, the commitment of weekly sessions is challenging for many individuals. This article illustrates the power of metaphor and symbolism to aid women in expressing their journeys of breast cancer. Through a group case example from a two-hour, single-session photogram art therapy workshop with eight women (ages 43-62 years) at varying stages of breast cancer, it is revealed how one session may have provided empowerment and connection. Key thematic findings are summarized through a qualitative phenomenological research methodology that included analysis of written, verbal and image-based data. The role and benefits of publicly exhibiting artwork created in an art therapy workshop to inform and inspire individuals are also explored.