Stop-motion as a tool in art therapy. Description of two experiences: in group setting with incarcerated adolescents and an art response derived from an intervention with older adults in nursing homes

Abstract

This paper provides a descriptive account of two stop-motion audiovisual productions, directed by two art therapists in separate parallel processes involving specific groups. Despite their differences, both groups share similar social problems such as stigmatisation, isolation, feelings of abandonment and negative social perceptions.

Firstly, we present the creative process of a group of young people deprived of their liberty who, taking advantage of this new space for expression without verbal demands, accept the proposal to create through symbolic language in order to communicate their situation and the common perception of the reality in which they live. The animation entitled One life... one bag is presented below. It is a creation of response art as artistic activism based on the story, within the art therapy space, of a group of older people living in a residence. This animation reflects their emotions and experiences in an environment that they do not feel is their own, where time seems to stand still and where emptiness, sadness and loneliness prevail.

Finally, the study explores the common ground between this audiovisual medium and art therapy. In this context, creators utilise the medium to raise awareness of their issues and needs, thereby validating its use within art therapy processes. The study also recognises the medium’s integrative potential for working with marginalised groups in an inclusive society