The emergence of Australian art therapies: Colonial legacies and hybrid practices

Abstract

This article provides an overview of the emergence of art therapies in Australia, from the perspectives of two art therapy educators from the University of Western Sydney (UWS). It introduces the context of art therapy practice and education in Australia and draws together a background history to the development of the profession, including key historical figures. The paper locates current positions and horizons within a post colonial context, revealing the innovative and hybrid practices of arts therapies that have evolved and are emerging in this particular place. A series of images provides a visual, poetic counterpoint to the text.

Keywords: Art therapies, Australia, colonial legacies, art therapy education; hybrid practices