Art Therapy: A Powerful Tool for Healing

By Bonnie Annis

May 8th, 2017

My CURE and Heal magazines are full of inspiring stories and helpful information. I save most of them and re-read them often. As I perused the most recent one, I got the idea to make the magazines part of an art therapy project. I've found art therapy to be a very relaxing and helpful part of my healing. As I began to choose key phrases from the magazine, I realized words like "warrior" and "survivor" were not just words. They were descriptive of me. The one in eight clipart reminded me of the statistics women face daily. As I clipped each article, I felt empowered. I used mixed media items to embellish the collage and make it more interesting. Some of the items I used were texture gel, modeling paste, metal buttons, pearls, antique lace and tiny dolls. I added the large icon of myself as a reminder that I am still in the process of overcoming the trauma cancer has inflicted upon my life. As I continue to heal, emotionally, physically, and spiritually, I know I'll continue to use art. CURE magazine and the Heal supplement have been instrumental in my healing process, too. I am so thankful for the CURE staff and all who help give us valuable information on a daily basis. Knowledge is power and art is wonderfully therapeutic.