LEAVING LEAVES -- BETWEEN SEASONS: Therapeutic Landscape Painting and Participatory Art

Abstract

This thesis is an exhibition of therapeutic art. The therapeutic qualities of the work are based on scientific studies in healthcare design and psychology, and evolutionary psychology. Attributes that have been demonstrated to reduce physical and emotional pain include: 1) references to flourishing, favorable natural environments, 2) regionally familiar references, 3) stylization or abstraction, and 4) a participatory opportunity to share experiences. The thesis exhibition includes a sequence of large landscape paintings (Between Seasons) and a participatory installation (Leaving Leaves), in a sitting area of a local healthcare facility (the East Carolina Heart Institute). The work facilitates the sharing of experiences of loss, and features visual representations of seasonal change. This thesis document discusses how elements from proven pain-reducing artworks and theories are incorporated into my work.