Rewriting Trauma: Art’s Role in Personal and Collective Rebirth
Art has always been a fundamental medium for understanding the struggles, problems and traumas of individuals and societies, especially in times of crisis. It provides a channel for processing and expressing emotions, making visible the intangible and sharing the unspeakable. In dealing with trauma, art transcends individual experience, promotes collective understanding and enables societies to come to terms with their history. Furthermore, art reveals the untold stories of societies and provides a platform for marginalised voices by empowering individuals to reclaim their narratives. From visual arts to performance, creative endeavours empower individuals to challenge oppressive systems, and build connections that foster resilience and healing. Through these processes, art becomes not only a reflection of pain, but also a blueprint for recovery and growth.
This session will examine the transformative power of art in healing trauma and rebuilding fractured identities, focusing on the ability of artistic expression to foster personal catharsis and collective empowerment, while providing a shared language for navigating complex emotions. Using examples from a range of media – including painting, music, theatre and digital art – the session will explore creative practices that enable individuals and communities to reinterpret their experiences and create pathways to hope and solidarity. Emphasising the collective power of art, the session will illustrate how artistic expression can bring people together on common ground, inspire resilience and provide opportunities for recovery.
● What makes art such a powerful tool for healing and processing trauma, both on an individual and collective level?
● How can art reveal the untold stories of societies and provide a platform for marginalised voices?
● How does art not only reflect pain, but also offer a path to recovery and personal growth?
● How can creative practices contribute to rebuilding identities and fostering resilience in the aftermath of collective trauma?