Spaces of Expression Project – Art Therapy Through Drawing

Activity Report

Date: Friday, June 19, 2026

Location: RAFIO Offices – 235 Montreal Road, Unit 203, Vanier, Ontario K1L 6C7

Project: Spaces of Expression

Theme: Expressing Emotions Through Drawing

Introduction

On Friday, June 19, 2026, as part of the Spaces of Expression project, RAFIO organized an art therapy activity focused on expressing emotions through drawing.

The purpose of this activity was to provide young people with a safe, supportive, and judgment-free environment where they could explore their emotions, develop their creativity, and use art as a tool for self-expression and emotional well-being.

Activity Overview

Participants were invited to express their emotions through drawing by using colors, shapes, and a variety of artistic materials.

The emphasis was placed on the creative process rather than the final artistic product, allowing each participant to express themselves freely according to their personal experiences and emotions.

Activities Conducted

During the workshop, participants took part in several activities designed to encourage personal expression, including:

• Creating drawings that represented their emotions, thoughts, and personal experiences;

• Exploring colors and shapes as tools for emotional communication;

• Participating in self-reflection exercises through the creative process;

• Sharing sessions where participants, if they wished, explained the meaning behind their artwork;

• Group discussions on the benefits of art as a tool for promoting mental health and emotional well-being.

Participants were encouraged to create freely, without pressure to perform or produce a "perfect" piece of artwork, in an environment where every form of expression was welcomed with respect.

Participation and Feedback

Participants demonstrated openness, creativity, and enthusiasm throughout the activity.

Drawing enabled many young people to express emotions that are sometimes difficult to put into words while encouraging relaxation, personal reflection, and a sense of being heard and understood.

The discussions among participants also strengthened trust, mutual listening, and respect for each other's unique experiences.

Closing of the Activity

The workshop concluded with a voluntary sharing session during which several participants presented their artwork and explained its personal meaning.

This closing activity celebrated the diversity of experiences, reinforced participants' sense of belonging, and highlighted the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels free to express themselves.

Conclusion

This art therapy activity, carried out as part of the Spaces of Expression project, enabled young people to discover drawing as a powerful tool for self-expression, reflection, and emotional well-being.

By providing a safe, inclusive, and judgment-free environment, RAFIO continues to promote youth mental health by encouraging emotional expression, creativity, and personal growth.

We sincerely thank all the young participants for their commitment, openness, and creativity, which greatly contributed to the success of this activity.