"The College Collage"

This project will be used to lessen the amount of stress felt by many students during finals week and, hopefully, serve as a create outlet. Collage can allow for a creative outlet that is free from a perceived "goal". A person who is tasked with making a collage is under less stress than someone who is tasked with, for example, painting a tree because the end outcome is not defined (source). This project will involve leaving a blank canvas for the campus to interact with and use as a means to de-stress. The blank poster will be placed just outside of the library (in the hall between the library and the annex) along with magazine cut outs and glue sticks. Directions for the project will also be posted.

The goal of this project is to capture the feelings of SMCM students at the start of exam week. Many times this can be the most stressful time because a full week of intensive study and exams lay ahead. While this project is meant to be an interactive way for students to de-stress, it will also give a tangible display of emotions based on colors chosen, flow of the piece, and willingness to participate.

Materials: large white poster board, easel or other way to display poster board, glue sticks, tons of cut outs from various magazines (approx. 150-200)

Plan: leave the easel and cut outs in the hall between the library and the annex with the following directions: De-stress a little during exam week by letting your creative energy flow! Please take a few of the cut outs and add them to this board as a representation of how you currently feel, how you would like to feel, things that make you happy, things that make you sad, etc. Please do not draw or write on this board.

I will display the board from 10am Monday 12/15 to 10pm 12/15. While the board is out I will check on it every two hours and document the developments through notes and photographs.

Sources:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/11/07/art-therapy-techniques_n_6103092.html
http://intuitivecreativity.typepad.com/expressiveartinspirations/self-expression-therapy-activities.html
http://creativityintherapy.blogspot.com/2012/07/collage-art-therapy-part-1.html
http://uvmbored.com/event/de-stress-with-soul-collage/