Kathy S-P

Artist Statement

The Helping Hand is an interwoven stream of consciousness and integration of my experience as an art therapy intern in an inpatient treatment facility. The depth of both paintings represents an expansion of awareness and intention of attuning and serving others in their recovery journey. It is a narrative between myself and the Helper in training while navigating the parallel process of reflexivity with empathy, transparency, and humility.

The Helper is an art response to an individual who eloped; it was pivotal in my learning and illuminated a deeper understanding of systems and their impact on individuals within the inpatient setting. The hands symbolize empowerment and encouragement in witnessing others in their struggles while providing and holding a safe and supportive environment. The butterfly and the lotus symbolize growth and the evolving student walking alongside others as they continue to work toward their hopes and dreams.