Sue Wallingford, MA, LPC, ATR-BC

Artist's Statement:

Most artists have had the experience of profound intimacy with their subject matter when engaged in the artistic process of rendering what they see or feel. Whether the subject matter is external or internal, the artist knows what it means to move beyond the surface of things to a place where time and space disappear. She knows what it means to surpass preconceived notions of things and to see the true nature, the deeper nature of things….one we are ultimately connected too. To call one’s self an artist is not so much about how one expresses what they see through line and color, but how one is able to see the subject matter with directness, honesty and appreciation. The art I create is about my attempt to see deep into things, and my quest to discover that golden thread in myself and in the creative process. Again and again I’m reminded of the profound wisdom that art making brings, continually recreating itself and me.

I think of doing art therapy in much the same way. Hopefully while sitting with my clients, whether making art or not, I can move beyond my judgments and preconceived ideas and experience my client as the unique and real human being she or he truly is. By trusting the infinite wisdom of our true nature I can possibly penetrate the surface to the depths of who we both are, and find the golden thread of our being. I believe it is during these moments that optimal healing happens, for both the client and therapist.