Friday 6th December 2024, 9.30am – 4.00pm
Edinburgh Quaker Meeting House, Victoria Terrace, Edinburgh
Decolonising my Art Therapy Practice
Dr Sally Skaife is an art therapist and group analyst who has combined these practices in art psychotherapy groups in adult psychiatry, with victims of politically orchestrated torture, in private practice and in experiential groups on art therapy training at Goldsmiths, University of London, where she taught for many years. Her interest is in the contradictions that are often thrown up through the materiality of the work, the ownership of the product, the medium of the art, the art making process in its context in the verbal interactions. These, she has found, often reflect contradictions that are hidden in organisations; the dominant voice hides and renders silent a marginalised voice but is nevertheless disturbed by that voice. Our work as therapists with those that suffer often disregards who or what is causing that suffering and instead focuses on individual lack. The contradictions brought about by using materials in a group which analyses its interactions can enable the group to throw their energies into trying to resolve them, which can make art psychotherapy groups sites of political engagement. Sally will give group vignettes and show artwork as a means to explore these ideas.
QMMAC offers the exciting opportunity to meet colleagues and students from group analysis, psychoanalysis and related professional fields for a shared experience of large group work and presentations relevant to working in psychotherapy. This quarterly meeting provides an enjoyable and supportive space for thinking, dialogue and learning. The regular meetings aim to reduce feelings of professional isolation, stimulate creative discussion and develop a sense of community among those involved in psychodynamic work. Through shared learning and dialogue, we grow stronger and more confident about our work and its place in the psychotherapeutic milieu.
Suitable for past and present trainees in group analysis (at any level), group analysts, individual analysts and colleagues in other fields with an interest in groups.
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