For Uzma Irfan, the art palette is enabler, healer and catalyst
- 4 hours ago
Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer
Uzma Irfan is Director of Corporate Communications at Prestige Group, one of India’s leading real estate developers. She is also the Founder of Sublime Art Galleria (2009), India’s first Sky Gallery in UB City, Bangalore. Sublime Art Galleria has taken part in World Art Dubai, and fosters fine and performing arts by supporting upcoming and aspiring artists, offering buyers quality artworks. Sublime Art Commissioning, established in 2018, strives to transform “visions into masterpieces” through bespoke artistic collaborations.
Hailing from a culturally rich family, Uzma developed an entrepreneurial spirit early on. Her love of business combined with her love of art, has led her to explore and experiment innovatively, both in business and in culture. She is keenly interested in art therapy, since she feels it is one of the ways which artists can offer their skills and services for the greater good of society. The American Art Therapy Association defines art therapy as something that is used to improve cognitive and sensory-motor functions, foster self-esteem and self-awareness, cultivate emotional resilience, promote insight, enhance social skills, reduce and resolve conflicts and distress, and advance societal and ecological change.
Uzma Irfan speaks to Gulf Today on art therapy or what she calls “transformation through creative expression”
Why does art heal?
Art therapy is a transformative approach that embraces the potential to express creatively. It goes beyond words, allowing everyone to access and explore material that is difficult to communicate. Art as a communication form predates language itself, making creativity a powerful tool for self-discovery and healing. By engaging in the creative process, individuals can experience relief from emotional distress, find solace, and gain new perspectives that leads to significant personal growth and transformation. Art possesses remarkable healing properties; it allows individuals to express and channel their emotions through the act of creation. Therefore, participation in art-making provides a unique modality for communicating and processing one’s innermost feelings.
Are you a trained art therapist?
Though I do not possess formal training as an art therapist, I commit to fostering creativity and self-expression through art. My intention in establishing an art gallery is to support and cultivate emerging artists by creating a platform that not only honours their talent, but also demonstrates the transformative impact of art on enhancing individual lives.
Do you have first-hand experience of how art therapy helped someone?
I have witnessed the profound impact art can have on individuals. Through my art gallery, I’ve seen how creating and engaging with art brings joy, builds confidence, and fosters emotional expression, supports emotional healing, promotes self-discovery and personal growth through artistic expression, enriching lives. The holistic advantages of art therapy render it a valuable tool for personal development and healing.
Is there a danger that art therapy will look like quackery?
Art therapy was founded to establish psychological principles to represent a credible and effective form of therapeutic intervention. Although misconceptions may arise due to a lack of awareness or the existence of unregulated practices, an expanding body of research underscores its advantages in managing stress, trauma, and emotional difficulties. Art therapy offers distinct, evidence-based pathways to healing that complement traditional therapeutic methods. To mitigate perceptions of pseudoscience, it is imperative to maintain rigorous professional standards, foster education regarding its scientifically validated outcomes, and integrate art therapy into comprehensive healthcare practices. This approach ensures the recognition and respect of its value within the therapeutic community.
How will you integrate art therapy into medical practice?
Integrating art therapy into medical practice constitutes a critical advancement in developing a holistic care model that comprehensively addresses both physical and emotional well-being. Art therapy sessions should be regarded as an integral aspect of patient care, particularly within the fields of oncology, pediatrics, mental health, and rehabilitation. Incorporating art therapy empowers them to effectively process emotions, alleviate stress, and enhance their coping mechanisms. Furthermore, it is vital to educate healthcare professionals on the significant benefits of art therapy and to establish dedicated spaces for creative expression, thereby fostering greater acceptance within medical environments. By systematically combining evidence-based medicine with art therapy, healthcare providers can offer a compassionate, patient-centered approach that promotes comprehensive healing.
Are there feelings of shame associated with art therapy?
There is no shame associated with art therapy. Over time, participants often transform these feelings into empowerment, as art becomes a safe medium to explore, express, and process emotions without fear.
Do psychiatrists, especially in India, look at art therapy favourably?
Psychiatrists in India are gradually acknowledging the significance of art therapy as a powerful complement to conventional treatment methods. Many mental health professionals are beginning to appreciate the transformative potential of art therapy.
Vincent van Gogh painted fervently. But it didn’t help him. Can you comment?
Vincent van Gogh’s paintings reflect the therapeutic potential of art, even amid profound struggles. While it didn’t cure his illness, it provided him with a vital outlet for self-expression, offering moments of purpose and connection, which is still inspirational. Van Gogh’s journey reminds us that art remains a profound medium for exploring, understanding and processing emotions, contributing meaningfully to mental health and well-being.
Can art therapy cause harm?
Art therapy provides individuals with a safe space to explore their emotions, confront challenges, and develop coping strategies. When applied thoughtfully and responsibly, the advantages of art therapy far surpass any potential concerns, making it a valuable asset for enhancing psychological health and fostering emotional resilience.
