ATOL Editorial

Abstract

After a period of absence ATOL is delighted to be back with this new issue. As some readers will know, we have been taking part in the direct-action boycott of academic publication and research by Goldsmiths University, our hosting website, in support of the University College Union (UCU) and as part of the industrial action in Higher Education. The boycott of research platforms has now officially ended, although strikes are currently ongoing and now echoed outside of academia in increased industrial action across public sector workplaces.

Since our last publication in 2020 the world has sustained turbulent and difficult times. There have been military conflicts globally, a pandemic bringing loss and uncertainty, increased inequality and polarity in divisions of wealth, and multiple catastrophes caused by climate change. As editors of this issue, and as two art therapists based in the UK, we note the current cost of living crisis, the detrimental effects of austerity, cuts to services and Brexit. This shifting and uncertain landscape has resulted in challenges for art therapy practices. 

The writing in this issue reflects that of art therapists who seek to adapt to changing global contexts.