WHAT IS ART AS PERSPECTIVE?
Art as Perspective is an art-viewing method developed for people experiencing negative thoughts, stress, burnout, depression, and/or anxiety. The program consists of three one-hour museum visits. During each visit, a small group of up to seven people views three artworks in the museum. A trained guide supports participants with a variety of assignments and questions to help them truly observe and, in doing so, shift their perspective. This shift in perspective, both in viewing and, indirectly, in thinking, can provide support in situations that generate stress or negative feelings for many and that are often even more challenging for those with mental health difficulties. Additionally, it offers a moment to set aside the constant flow of negative thoughts. Together with a group of like-minded individuals, participants focus on an object that does not judge, nor talks back, and allows ample time for viewing and analysis: an artwork.
REACTIONS FROM PARTICIPANTS
(TRANSLATED FROM DUTCH)
“The tour taught me that you are very quick to make assumptions about the relationships between people in a group. That you think ‘they must have a lot of fun with each other.’ Out of uncertainty, I place myself outside of that. Only when you zoom in on the individual faces do you see – these people are just doing something. I will definitely take that with me in the ‘real’ world.” – Sophie
“I thought it was a really special experience to be in the Rijksmuseum with you and the other participants in the evenings […] I really think that looking at art in this way (together) contributes to well-being and resilience […] I grant more people that they can experience this” – Elien
“I just want to let you know that I loved the tour of the Rijks last week. I still enjoy it to this day. It was a special experience, I feel like a privileged person. […]
With your guidance, we came to nice insights and I was distracted from my busy daily thoughts. Surprised and zen I drove back home. The days after I noticed that the effect was still soaking. I was and remained calmer than before. I do feel that this visit to my beloved Rijks helps me on my way back from the valley of my struggles. I’m doing well and you’ve contributed to that.” – Gwen
“I would like a print of this work to remind me of it every day.” – Miètta
WANT TO PARTICIPATE?
Art as Perspective tours are in Dutch. However, if there is enough interest, I will organize a K.a.P. tour in English.
Would you like to register yourself or someone else? Want to know if Art as Perspective might be right for you or your organization? Or do you have other questions or comments? Feel free to get in touch with me.
Currently, this program is part of Museum on Recipe, a project offered in multiple museums. For more information, visit museumoprecept.nl