Psychology and Art: Creativity and Consciousness

What is the relationship between psychology and art? How can people find healing through the process of art-making? How have creative expression and creativity been part of the development of personality theory in the field of psychology? How can embodiment practices support studio art practices and catalyze creative imagination?

This is an introductory program in which students will build critical analytical skills through rigorous reading and writing, applying the materials to their own growth, as well as developing the foundations of studio art practices in Northwest Native design and printmaking. Students will study psychological personality theory and explore the use of printmaking by Indigenous artists of the Pacific world and how they use their artistic practice to promote community building, self-understanding, and advocacy. Students will focus on portfolio-building with an emphasis on professional editioning practices and book-binding techniques. The printmaking portion of the program is designed to support students who are visual art emphasizers, as well as those who are curious about the skills and knowledge necessary for sustained creative work. These skills are often prerequisites for those who wish to be involved with artistic practice or plan on teaching. Knowledge of personality theory is a prerequisite for doing advanced work in counseling or social work.

The program will have guest speakers and have one field trip to visit local museums.

Students will be expected to integrate extensive readings, lecture notes, studio experiences, films, interviews and other sources through writing and oral presentation assignments. Art-focused readings will include texts such as Brotherton’s “S'abadeb the Gifts: Pacific Coast Salish Art and Artists”, and Bayles & Orland’s “Art & Fear”. Readings in psychology will include writings by Carl Jung and other psychologists.