Lucy Stephens
Project title: Taking a step towards intergenerational healing
My research is a heuristic self-inquiry into culturally appropriate art therapy when working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people aged 12 – 25 years within the context of North Queensland, Australia. Following clinical art therapy sessions at Headspace with identifying Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people, I engaged in a practice called Dadirri, which is an ancient practice of Australia’s first nations people of deep and respectful listening to learn and reflect. I then captured these reflections and learnings within art making utilising clay due to its earthly qualities. The final step in the process is painting the clay sculpture to expand and highlight my reflections.
My research aims to explore what comprises culturally appropriate art therapy practice with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people and provide a small contribution to the knowledge field of art therapy hopefully taking us one small step closer toward intergenerational healing. As a non-indigenous clinician and qualified social worker, I believe that it is critical to reflect on our own practice to see what we can do to improve our cultural fitness and cultural safety when working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
I’ve always used art as a self-care and reflection tool. My art style changes with my mood along with the mediums utilised however I consistently use bright colours as they get my dopamine going. This is my first exhibition showcasing my work along this research journey. All of my artwork within this exhibition holds a connection to nature due to the subject of my research topic but also comprises an element of the ocean to represent me in the process.
The piece for the cover is titled “Messy Jellyfish” as it conveys my approach and response to research which has not come naturally to me. It is a fluid and organic piece utilising acrylic pour paint as the primary medium. This research process has stung me in some places as I have experienced self-doubt. However, like the process of engaging in this painting, it has come together to form a transparent piece of research.
Six stages of the heuristic journey
6 jpegs.
Photographs of mini sculptures created to initially support understanding of the six unique heuristic steps. I’m represented in the clown fish’s journey.
Photography of a yowie toy, clay and variety of mixed materials. All natural materials that were returned to Wulgurukaba country.