Sarah’s research is interested in the symbolic relationships people have with magical, spiritual and faith healing objects and artifacts. Exploring human engagement with these types of items, as well as their history and materiality. Asking the question, what do we as humans continue to get out of these interactions with healing in mind? 

In her panel talk Sarah will walk us through the creation of her magical and spiritual therapeutic art resource ‘The Humannis Deck’. Exploring findings from her doctorate study and explaining how she drew on her own artmaking and healing to create something to help others on their personal paths to recovery.  

Inspired by historical objects, folklore (old and new) and modern ritual practices, ‘The Humannis Deck’ is a system of meaning designed for the now, a means to facilitate new ways of exploring emotional and creative blocks via expressive making. Intuitively allowing those who use it to explore their life and emotions via the creation of personal and emotive artworks. 

The deck serves as a creative starting point from which outputs such as ritual making, art, writing, poetry, dance, drama or music can be made to discuss emotions or experiences. The deck is intended for therapeutic use by both individuals and groups including community, hospitals, mental health, and palliative care.