What is the difference in the impact of art therapy and art?

The difference in the impact of art therapy and art is in the purpose of, and human reaction to, each.

The subject of the impact of art on individuals, populations, communities, and education has been and continues to be studied. In general, the impact of art is based on one’s emotional response to it, no matter the medium. It is believed that understanding and being involved in artistic endeavors such as music or painting enriches lives. For some, art impacts their understanding of history through works from pre-biblical times to contemporary work. Some believe that exposure to and participation in the arts is paramount to student learning, while others believe the arts simple cause people to express and react to beauty and pleasure that would not exist without artistic outlets.

On the other hand, the purpose of art therapy is to aid in the healing of individuals from social and emotional trauma. Art therapy is a distinct form of psychotherapy. It is a creative release, facilitated by an art therapist or psychologist, in both individual and group settings. People are encouraged to express their emotions through artistic creations in order to deal with life’s challenges, illnesses, and relationships.

Art therapy helps people resolve conflicts, improve interpersonal skills, manage problematic behaviors, reduce negative stress, and achieve personal insight. Art therapy also provides an opportunity to enjoy the life-affirming pleasures of art making.