This presentation discusses the outcomes of my recent art therapy group with Syrian refugee women. The aim of the group was to encourage storytelling through culturally-relevant art materials (embroidery). Data collected on the value of using cultural-based art materials, and the stories that arose from each embroidered wall-hanging will be presented. Things to think about when working with clients who come from different cultural/religious backgrounds, and how to overcome language barriers will also be discussed.
Alexandra Hanania is an art therapy student in Toronto, currently writing her thesis on the interplay between iconoclasm, spirituality, and art therapy. She recently completed her master of arts degree in Humanities, specialising in psychoanalytic theory, popular culture, and religious belief. She currently runs textile-based expressive arts groups at Sheena’s Place, an eating disorder support centre in Toronto.