Homelands and new lands : Artmaking with refugee survivors of human rights abuses

Rose, Emma and Bingley, Amanda and Rioseco Castillo, Macarena (2022) Homelands and new lands : Artmaking with refugee survivors of human rights abuses. In: Groupwork with Refugees and Survivors of Human Rights Abuses : The Power of Togetherness. Routledge, Oxon, pp. 126-138. ISBN 9781032043883

Abstract

The authors have used action research methods to investigate ways of helping survivors of torture and other human rights abuses benefit from creative activities as part of a holistic rehabilitation programme. This chapter aims to describe good practice guidelines for introducing survivors to a range of arts-based activities, including painting, collage and 3D modelling. Guidance will be based on a current literature review and the authors’ extensive experience of running their own groups in a range of formal and informal settings. A primary focus will be on the use of creative expression/activities to help establish a sense of safe place, so crucial in the recovery process from trauma.