Healing Icons: art support program for patients with cancer

The purpose of this report is to describe the structure and process of an art support program for patients with cancer who are age 16 and older.

Healing Icons is a six-session art support program for cancer patients. During the program participants create a three-dimensional mixed-media art piece to convey a unique personal perspective on receiving a diagnosis of and being treated for cancer. Concurrently, the patients spontaneously share common experiences about their cancer, which leads to strong emotional bonds. The purpose and goals of the program, method of implementation, and evaluation are described. Information and suggestions that clinicians might find useful in developing similar programs are discussed. Patient participants, their families, and staff in the cancer center have reported positive clinical evaluations.

The benefits of Healing Icons are derived from the therapeutic factors present in a traditional support group blended with the creative process. This kind of program opens new avenues for expressing feelings and thoughts but should be structured in such a way that group processes are not allowed to negatively impact participants. Healthcare professionals interested in collaborating with artists on similar programs for cancer patients may approach artists through local art councils, art schools, and artists guilds. Brainstorming sessions with artists would help to capitalize on the expertise of artists within the community. Initiating a pilot project would help gauge patient interest and would provide valuable feedback from the healthcare team. Research is needed to validate the clinical outcomes derived from this program, as empirical findings would greatly enhance the clinical evaluations.