2025 Olivia Borman Adapting Art: Empowering Hospitalized Children with Disabilities through Art Therapy

Discover the transformative power of adaptive art therapy with Olivia Borman, a passionate master’s student at the Herron School of Art + Design, part of Indiana University Indianapolis. In her inspiring thesis video, Olivia shares her research on creative adaptations in art therapy for hospitalized children with physical disabilities, gathered through a nationwide survey of art therapists. Her findings offer practical insights into modifying spaces, materials, and directives to make art therapy accessible and empowering for young patients.

Olivia’s research highlights innovative accommodations, such as wheelchair-accessible studios and adaptive tools, ensuring children can engage in therapeutic art-making despite physical limitations. Her response artwork pays tribute to four renowned disabled artists—Frida Kahlo, Henry Matisse, Chuck Close, and Sheila Sharma—whose adaptive techniques, like painting with a foot or using strapped brushes, informed her creative process. This installation celebrates resilience and encourages viewers to reflect on overcoming adversity through art.

Conducted at Herron (https://herron.indianapolis.iu.edu), Olivia’s work underscores the need for art therapists to embrace non-traditional strategies to enhance accessibility. Her}^{-}\

System: research advocates for a more inclusive world, boosting self-esteem and mental health for disabled individuals. Learn more about Herron’s Art Therapy program at https://herron.indianapolis.iu.edu/academics/gdegrees/art-therapy/index.html and support this vital push for accessibility. Like, share, and subscribe to amplify Olivia’s mission to make art therapy inclusive for all!