CRATE: Art Therapy — Christy Herdman
Glimmers
Churchill Square
Festival Workshop
Monday July 1
12:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Glimmers 2 - Inside Box, Sample Artwork, May 2, 2024, Mixed Medium, 3.7”x3.7”x4.3”. Photo Credit: Christy Herdman.
Artist Statement
Gimmers is a way to observe an unfamiliar phenomenon: tiny moments of happiness captured in the confines of a miniature theater. This pop-up art activation sheds light on a self-regulation technique designed to enhance emotional well-being through craft and play. The opposite of triggers are glimmers; defined as “small moments when our biology is in a place of connection or regulation, which cues our nervous system to feel safe or calm” (Moniuszko, 2022).
Glimmers intentionally use pint-sized props to draw one into the imaginative world, igniting a feeling of joy, and creating an experience that enhances a child-like sense of wonder. The aim is to engage the audience as an active participant. To expand the imagination further and to truly bring the participant into the liminal space, the art activation is a hands-on activity for participants to create a take-home micro diorama that uses minimal art supplies to capture their glimmer.
Christy’s work intentionally embraces a handmade/DIY aesthetic to invite both curiosity and interaction. She aims to share her sense of wonder through imaginative, child-centric art. Her minimalist design style is both captivating and introduces a sense of play, offering an easy entry point for audiences to explore mental health concepts in greater depth. The graphic designer in her is drawn to incorporating symbols and shapes to convey a message clearly and concisely. Inspired by natural environments (both real and imagined), Christy aims to connect with both kids and kids-at-heart, to draw them into the liminal space. The driving force behind her creative process is to cultivate a more compassionate community by sharing art-based practices that enhance mental well-being.
about the artist
Christy Herdman (she/her) is a compassionate, creative spirit—both problem solver and artist—certified art therapist. Intertwining audience participation and mindful engagement—Chisty introduces the public to art activations that move beyond passive viewership to active participation. Previous art activations include Bug Hunt (Beakerhead), Let It Blow (Chinook Blast), and Warm Fuzzy Challenge (Chinook Blast). Christy's work intentionally embraces a handmade/DIY aesthetic to invite curiosity and interaction. This simple yet captivating style offers an easy entry point for audiences to navigate the more complex themes within her work. With a deep desire to make a difference in her hometown, this third-generation Calgarian founded CRATE Art Therapy. As sole proprietor of CRATE Art Therapy, Christy facilitates workshops that meld creativity and therapeutic techniques to teach psychoeducational concepts.The motivating force behind Christy’s creative process is to foster a more compassionate community by introducing audiences to art-based practices that promote emotional wellness.