Introduction to Therapeutic Art
Class Description
The Erie Art Museum is excited to introduce a new Therapeutic Art Program, designed and facilitated by Sumin Kim, BFA, MA, LAPC, ATR (she/her). This series invites participants to explore self-awareness, empathy, and joy through expressive artmaking while creating art that feels personally meaningful, in a supportive, judgment-free environment. No prior art experience is needed.
Please note that this is NOT group therapy. This is a community-based art class that draws on the therapeutic nature of art-making.
Session I - Mixed Media: Participants will be introduced to a variety of art materials and techniques, including painting, collage, beading, and sensory-based materials such as dissolving paper and stone. The focus is on open-ended exploration and creative play, rather than artistic skill or final outcomes.
Session II - Exploring Self and Others: Participants will use art-making as a way to learn more about themselves and others, practicing kindness toward themselves and others while enjoying the shared experience of creating art in community. Through guided, reflective art activities, participants are invited to explore identity, relationships, and personal strengths in a supportive group setting.
Price
This class is operating on a sliding scale. You may purchase the class at a rate you feel financially comfortable with, up to the maximum class cost of $125. All students will receive the same instruction regardless of payment.
Use the checkout process as-is to pay the full $125 for the class. To adjust the price during checkout, please enter the desired price in the promo code box in a multiple of 25, between $25 and $100, using the format MEDIA##. For example, to pay $75, enter MEDIA75 into the promo code box. Please reach out to us if you need assistance.
Available promo codes
MEDIA25
MEDIA50
MEDIA75
MEDIA100
Please only register 1 student per transaction if using discounts.
Dates & Times
Two different sessions are available for this class.
Session 1: Thursdays March 5th—26th, 12 – 2 pm
March 5th
March 12th
March 19th
March 26th
Session 2: Wednesdays May 6th—27th, 6 – 8 pm
May 6th
May 13th
May 20th
May 27th
Materials Required
All materials are included.
About the Instructor - Sumin Kim
Sumin Kim (she/her), MA, LAPC, ATR is an Erie-based award-winning artist, associate therapist, and certified art therapist, who has been recognized for her community outreach, including pioneering art therapy programs across multiple community settings and sharing professional work at various conferences. Sumin’s passion is to promote community wellbeing and belonging through creative expression. Her approach integrates mindfulness, playfulness, and reflection to help participants reconnect with themselves and others through art. As an artist, Sumin creates toys to promote dialogue and build stronger communities.