Editorial

Abstract

From the early days of the profession, art therapists have been in dialogue regarding the meaning of the image or art work made in therapy. The debate centres on the extent to which the image is viewed as an aesthetic object in its own right or as a form of expression that conveys, consciously and unconsciously, the predicament of its maker that can be further explored and understood. This third dimension within the therapeutic relationship and the setting in which is it is made has been the subject of continual scrutiny and debate particularly in relation to the transference issues not only to the image but also to the therapist. We are privileged to revisit this discussion in this Issue as once again these important issues are placed centre stage through a fascinating collection of papers, videos, exhibition and book reviews.