Art as sustainable practice

The focus of this project is the coordination and implementation of an event that exemplifies how the arts can be a sustainable form of social work practice that is not only effective for individuals but also holds great potential for entire communities. Interventions in social work that incorporate the arts can be applied in therapeutic settings as well as to promote awareness and social action. Utilizing the arts provides tools that sustain individuals and communities. To explore the potential applications for the arts in the field of social work I have reviewed literature relating to the beneficial properties of the expressive arts in a variety of arenas under the purview of social work. In particular I will address the application of the arts in clinical therapy, specific examples of the instrumental role expressive arts have played in liberating oppressed communities, and the community building that is involved in establishing these avenues for creative expression. To implement my project I collaborated with local performers that promote expressive arts therapy to hold a concert presenting their work on April 23rd, 2015. The event was successful in its attempt to build community and demonstrate expressive arts therapy.