Do Materials Matter in Art Therapy?
Do Materials Matter in Art Therapy?
Unfortunatley, the answer is not so simple. To sum it up—yes AND no!
When it comes to making art, there is one question you’ll see asked the most online. Potential clients, creative hobbyists, and professional artists alike all have all wondered: “What art supplies do I need?”
Which begs the question—Do materials matter in Art Therapy?
Unfortunately, the answer is not so simple. To sum it up—yes AND no!
Here are some reasons that materials and supplies DO matter in art therapy, whether in-office or at home:
Different materials have different properties—it’s much easier to control pencil strokes than flowing watercolor paints.
This doesn’t mean that quality of your supplies is everything! We’ll get to that a little later.
SOMETIMES quality matters, depending on what your goal is! Trying to mix paint colors yourself? Because of how paint pigments work, very cheap paints may produce muddier, less vibrant colors compared to student- or artist-grade paints.
CONTEXT MATTERS! Does your space have good ventilation? No? Skip the oil paints and go for a medium with little to no fumes, like watercolor or acrylic paints.
On a budget? When working with an art therapist, they can help you choose materials that won’t break the bank, including free digital tools.
Why materials DON’T matter for Art Therapy to be successful:
ANY material has the potential to be therapeutic—even foraged supplies like fallen leaves and acorn husks.
WHAT you are using matters much less than HOW you are using it.
Focusing too much on getting “the best” supplies can backfire—your expensive pens and paper may become too precious to “waste”, stopping you from using them. And in this day and age, there will always be something newer and “better” out there, making it impossible to choose the perfect supplies.
Searching for Art Therapy in Washington?
I offer telehealth art therapy and counseling for teens and adults throughout Washington State. My approach is creative, collaborative, and tailored to YOUR unique preferences and situation. No art experience is required!
Learn more about explore Art Therapy, how Art Therapy can help neurodivergent clients, or contact me to schedule a free consultation.
About Beryl Olson
Beryl Olson, LMHCA, ATR-P, is an art therapist and mental health counselor based in Olympia, Washington. She provides LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent-affirming therapy via telehealth throughout Washington State.