Photo Art Therapy: Coproducing a Community Arts-Based Research With Children in Care (Art-thérapie par la photo : coproduire une recherche fondée sur les arts communautaires avec des enfants pris en charge)

Abstract

Photography is a powerful means of creative expression but it is often overlooked in the field of creative therapies. In this arts-based research, we describe a collaborative community project informed by the principles and practice of art therapy with former street children in residential care (age range 9 to 15). Ten participants used cameras to document their stories through images, they engaged in group discussions, made individual photo albums, and community photo exhibitions. The project was designed with the input of the participants to ensure cultural appropriateness and user engagement. We assessed the value of photography as both a tool for therapy and an artistic medium. Through interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA), the authors looked at the images as artworks and means of expression. Participants identified how photography helped to re-tell and gain control of their life stories, explored future aspirations, and regained a sense of social responsibility. With the visual evidence of their stories, group discussions and exhibitions, they became active agents of community engagement and social change. Future studies can further explore photo art therapy as a method to improve individual and group well-being. The healing potential of photographs and photography as useful tools for social cohesion, sensitization, and emotional well-being are discussed as project outcomes.