Students and Military Personnel Find Solace in ‘Therapeutic Art Night’
The WKU Counseling Center and the WKU Military Student Services have designed an oasis of calm and creativity for students and military-associated personnel in an event called “Therapeutic Art Night”. Hosted on Wednesday, April 17, the session aimed to enable attendees to unwind and relieve stress by indulging in art.
Unwind With Art
“A way that we can engage [military-affiliated students] is through creativity and art,” stated Mariya Fye, a staff counselor at the WKU Counseling Center. Fye clarified that, despite the therapeutic implications of its title, the art night is not a formal therapy session. However, she stressed that it provides a valuable opportunity to foster connections and promote mental and emotional wellbeing.
During the session, attendees engaged in acrylic pour painting, a technique that can be correctly described as both science and art. This expressive form of abstract art involves pouring acrylic paint onto a canvas and encapsulating completely unique patterns, determined by the movement of the paint as it flows across the surface.
Prioritizing Mental Health
In a world increasingly acknowledging the importance of mental health, initiatives like this help spread awareness of the myriad ways in which self-care can be administered. Using creative outlets like art to reduce stress and enhance feelings of tranquility can be extremely beneficial, particularly in a high-stress environment.
A Moment of Quiet in a Hectic Schedule
While juggling a multitude of responsibilities and challenges, from academics to personal issues and the additional demands placed on military-associated students, moments of relaxation are precious. This innovative event offered a chance to unwind and recharge creatively, enhancing participants’ overall wellbeing.
Events such as “Therapeutic Art Night” offer a testament to the multifaceted nature of self-care and its potential for cementing a sturdy foundation for emotional health. As institutions like the WKU Counseling Center and the WKU Military Student Services continue to trial impactful initiatives, it becomes increasingly clear that prioritizing mental health can foster a progressive and supportive community.
