Fine Arts

The tasks and problems involved in the numerous fields of application of art therapy may be of quite a diverse nature; however art therapists always use one particular medium, namely art. This medium forms the basis of their work. No matter how different the people may be with whom art therapists have to work, and no matter how they have been shaped by family and occupation, national and social background, art is so universal that its creative qualities offer something for everyone.

Whoever works artistically is involved in a creative process, but, parallel to this, such persons also contribute to shaping themselves. It is through this process that forces can be developed which have a significant impact on our health. Our art therapeutic concepts and methods are based on this perception.

Consequently, art therapists focus primarily on the task of releasing a person’s creative potential, with the aim of benefiting his/her health. They investigate ways for art to help a person break out of his/her constitutional, pathological or social framework. They look behind the actual person to try and see how he/she might be, in other words that person capable of autonomously shaping both him/herself and the world, even with obstructions and restrictions. Each time the therapist initiates and accompanies artistic processes in an individual relationship, which also involves the appropriate therapeutic and pedagogic responsibility.

Due to the fact that we consider these professional aspects to be of such significance, our studies focus on artistic practice, as well as on the artistic self-experience and self-reflection. They play an indispensable role in honing art therapeutic and social competence. Hence, artistic identity is the real source of strength behind therapeutic or pedagogic work.

The broad range of scientific modules has been designed to impart a sound knowledge in all basic principles relevant to art therapy and art pedagogy. This includes, in particular, medicine, anthroposophical anthropology, pedagogy, social pedagogics and psychology. At the same time, students can deepen this acquired knowledge in the practice-oriented subjects that deal with important areas of art therapy. The work placement trimester, which takes place just before graduation, acts as a bridge between the studies and the professional world. Experience has shown, that on completion of their studies, students are frequently offered a position with their work placement organisation.

During the entire course, the public’s perception of artistic work plays an important role. All important results of our work are presented, exhibited or discussed in some form or other. The highlight of the academic year is the exhibition of our students’ final works. The exhibitions are opened ceremoniously, and never fail to underline art’s manifold articulation possibilities.