A Mandurah artist is helping children express their emotions through the creative process, at her popular art therapy workshops.
Art therapy workshops boost confidence, spark curiosity and develop mindfulness, according to local artist Cindy Wright.
Ms Wright has been running sessions throughout the school holidays to empower children.
She said being surrounded by good company during the workshops helped shy children build and maintain their social skills.
“It really helps them get out there and they get to meet like-minded kids. It puts them in a crowd that they can relate to,” she said.
“It’s great for relationships and to build up trust.”
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She said it wasn’t all about the finished product, rather about the process.
“They draw outside the lines. I encourage them to make those mistakes. The world isn’t perfect,” she said.
“It’s really therapeutic. It teaches them not to be afraid to express themselves and they’re at a time in their lives when they need to express themselves.”
She said through art people could better cope with stress and speed up their recovery process.
So far, Ms Wright said she had has hosted successful workshops at the Mandurah Library and Lakeland’s Library Community Centre.
She said she was looking forward to hosting her last school holiday workshop at Falcon E-Library and Community Centre on January 18 at 10am.
Traditionally a glass artist, Ms Wright is contracted through the City of Mandurah to host the workshops under a program called R T Kids.
She said one of the most rewarding moments since starting the workshops was when one of her student decided to stayed on after high school to complete an internship.
The workshops also expose the children to various artists from around the Peel region.
Ms Wright said it was important to demonstrate to students that, despite the stereotype, it was possible to have a career in creative arts.
Throughout the term, Ms Wright runs after school art workshops at CASM on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Her after-school workshops cost $160 each student, per term. Additional cost are covered by the City of Mandurah.
During the year students also participate in creating artwork for events including Crab Fest and Stretch Festival.
Ms Wright hosts the workshops for children aged between four and 16.
For more information call Ms Wright on 0434 958 053 or 9550 3650.
You can also find her on Facebook via her page RT Kids with Cindy Wright or via email on cinds.wright@gmail.com.
