Identifying Curative Factors of Art Therapy Gallery Exhibition with Veterans: A Feminist Approach

Abstract

Art therapy gallery exhibitions can address the mental health needs of veterans by empowering clients to share their experiences in art therapy settings on a public scale. This article uses qualitative methods to assess the benefits of an art therapy gallery exhibition with a group of female veteran participants. Post-exhibition interviews revealed themes of vulnerability, empowerment, connectedness, and validation. Publicly exhibiting artwork created in an art therapy setting proved to target clinical treatment needs often seen in veteran populations, including avoidance, disempowerment, self-stigmatizing beliefs, and isolation. The art therapy gallery exhibition also served as a social justice advocacy measure among a marginalized population.