The inaugural group of nine art therapists in South Africa graduated on Thursday, April 4, 2024, from the University of Johannesburg (UJ). These pioneering individuals were conferred their degrees from UJ’s Faculty of Art, Design, and Architecture (FADA), marking a significant milestone in South Africa’s mental health and therapeutic practices.
UJ stands at the forefront of formalised art therapy training within South Africa, offering the nation’s inaugural and sole programme of its kind. Demonstrating a dedication to delivering education that is both culturally attuned and contemporary, the UJ Art Therapy programme integrates local and global perspectives, ensuring that graduates possess the requisite skills to effectively address the diverse needs within their respective communities.
Professor Kim Berman, Head of the UJ Art Therapy programme, expressed immense pride in the graduation of the inaugural class of art therapists. She highlighted that this milestone symbolises not only the dedication of the students but also a significant advancement in mental health care in South Africa. “These emerging art therapists understand the societal inequalities and advocate for using art and social action to deliver mental health services effectively,” said Prof Berman.
Highlighting the students’ backgrounds, Prof Berman pointed out that many had been involved in arts-based healing for years, having received training at Lefika La Phodiso (Rock of Holding), an art therapy space founded by Hayley Berman nearly three decades ago. “Art as therapy has been a potent force in NGO movements for decades, and the Visual Art Department at UJ takes pride in our role in paving the way for these outstanding graduates who are prepared to make a noteworthy difference in our traumatised communities.
These graduates have been waiting a long time for this professional qualification to be offered in South Africa. Alongside the need for this HPCSA registered qualification to practice as art psychotherapists, there is also an imperative to produce and share groundbreaking South African-centred research,” she said.
Graduate reflections
Reflecting on their journey, some of the graduates shared their experiences and aspirations:
“I chose to study Art Therapy at UJ because it was the first South African institution to offer the course. Like me, many of my cohort had patiently waited years for the opportunity, and jumped at the chance. At UJ we have had the privilege of being taught and mentored by many incredible art therapists, some of who have lengthy experience practicing in the South African context, and all of its complexities.
Having international and local perspectives has prepared us to practice in ways that feel authentic and important. I am eternally thankful for all those who have made this program possible,” said Saxon Kinnear, one of the graduates.
Gugu Manana, highlighted that her belief in the healing power of art, led to her to this course:
“I chose the art therapy course at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) driven by my passion for art and psychology, believing in creativity’s healing power. UJ provides a supportive community where I refine my skills and gain insights from seasoned professionals. Professionally, this equips me to guide individuals through diverse mental health challenges, fulfilling a deeper purpose beyond just career ambitions. As a black art therapist, I understand the significance of representation and diversity in the field.
Being the first black art therapist in a predominantly white landscape here is more than a milestone; it is a chance to bridge cultural divides and offer culturally sensitive therapy to historically underserved communities. My presence advocates for diversity and speaks for underrepresented voices, injecting fresh perspectives and cultural insights into the therapeutic process. Professionally, pioneering in this capacity not only advances the field but also champions inclusivity and equity in mental health care. It positions me as a change agent and a voice for underrepresented, under resourced and underserviced communities, enriching the therapeutic landscape for both clients and society at large,” Manana said.
In addition to Kinnear and Manana, the roster of qualified art therapists now also includes Sandra Greef, Kamal Naran, Kate Shand, Alisa Ray, Lauren Ross, Joanne Van Zyl, and Leigh-Anne Alexander. Their combined efforts hold the potential to reshape mental health services and advocate for societal transformation through the empowering medium of art therapy.
The curriculum of the UJ Art Therapy programme is meticulously crafted to furnish students with a thorough grasp of art therapy principles and methodologies. Through immersive hands-on experiences and supervised clinical placements, graduates emerge equipped to engage with diverse populations, spanning children, adults, and families.
UJ’s Art therapy programmes
The University offers two comprehensive programmes in Art Therapy tailored to meet the needs of aspiring practitioners. The Honours programme, spanning one year on a part-time basis, imparts foundational knowledge and skills in art therapy. Conversely, the two-year full-time Master’s programme explores advanced theories, research methodologies, and clinical practices, priming graduates for professional roles across a spectrum of settings.
Prof Berman concludes: “As South Africa faces growing mental health challenges, the emergence of trained art therapists brings hope for innovative and holistic approaches to healing.
The University remains committed to nurturing future generations of compassionate and skilled professionals who will make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and communities across the country.”
