Eco-Social Innovation
In the face of global challenges like climate change, design must consider humanity as a whole – along with other forms of life on our planet – rather than focusing solely on immediate stakeholders. I am passionate about facilitating the co-creation of responses to social and environmental challenges with communities and diverse teams through art therapy and participatory design.
Art Therapy and Design for Eco-Social Innovation
Combining participatory design, life-centered (or planet-centered) design, and community art therapy can significantly enhance social innovation initiatives.
- Participatory design actively involves community members in the decision-making and development process, ensuring that their voices, creativity, and experiences shape the projects that impact their lives.
- Art therapy provides a safe space for people to express their emotions and experiences through art, fostering connection, collective healing, and resilience. Moreover, it provides helpful tools for integrating different perspectives into participatory and interdisciplinary processes aimed at creating balanced and sustainable solutions.
- By incorporating principles of life-centered design, these initiatives can focus on systemic and holistic solutions that consider both ecological and social impacts, ensuring that the projects benefit both communities and the environment.
Relevant related terms: planet-centered or planet-centric design, life-centered design, humanity-centered design, eco-social design, conscious design, community art therapy, arts-based research
How?
Based on a detailed literature review and my personal experience in participatory design and art therapy, I developed an initial model for integrating art therapy into participatory design projects focused on eco-social innovation, highlighting the unique contributions of art therapy. I’d be happy to tell you more about it in an online meeting – just send me an email!
