INCORPORATING ART AS THERAPY FOR REFUGEE

  • Sorunke Olaseni Taiwo
  • Chinyere Ndubuisi

Résumé

The contemporary landscape of asylum seekers reflects a poignant narrative of individuals fleeing their countries of origin due to imminent danger and socio-political turmoil, often stemming from persecution based on factors such as ethnicity, religion, nationality, social affiliations, or political beliefs. Consequently, these displaced individuals find themselves outside the protective confines of their homeland, navigating a labyrinth of uncertainty and anxiety that impedes their ability to seek refuge or contemplate a return. Many asylum seekers find themselves relegated to camps, where the shadows of doubt loom large, exacerbating their traumatic experiences and precipitating a decline in confidence, self-esteem, and mental well-being over time. Amidst this backdrop, the therapeutic potential of art and craft participation emerges as a beacon of hope, offering a pathway towards healing and redemption. This paper undertakes a review of existing literature on creative practices and art treatments tailored for refugees, with a particular focus on elucidating the multifaceted role of the arts in addressing migration-related challenges. Through a meticulous survey of arts-based studies, this research endeavors to deepen our understanding of how artistic interventions can ameliorate the psychological toll experienced by traumatized immigrants and asylum seekers across diverse geographical contexts. By synthesizing empirical evidence and theoretical frameworks, this study aims to shed light on the transformative power of art therapy in fostering resilience, promoting self-expression, and nurturing a sense of agency and belonging among displaced populations

Publiée
2025-06-09
Rubrique
Articles