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Exploring Emotions through Color: The Role of Idiomatic Expressions in Art Therapy

by Lauren Fallat, LPC LPAT ATR-BC


Colors are an intricate and universal language that transcend barriers and speak to our souls. They possess a unique ability to convey a multitude of emotions, thoughts, and personal experiences, making them an indispensable element of human expression. In the realm of art therapy, idiomatic expressions that involve color can serve as powerful tools to explore the depth of one's feelings and express what words often struggle to convey.


Consider how we often say we're "feeling blue" when we're down or "seeing red" when we're angry. These idiomatic expressions are more than linguistic quirks; they highlight our innate understanding of the emotional power of colors. In our daily lives, we gravitate toward specific colors that reflect our current emotional state, whether it's choosing a calming blue room to relax in or donning a red dress for a night of celebration. In art therapy, this emotional connection is harnessed to explore and express feelings, providing a visual and creative outlet for emotions that might be challenging to articulate through words alone. In this blog post, we'll delve into some idiomatic expressions that use color and how they can be harnessed in art therapy to support emotional well-being and self-discovery.


"Feeling Blue" - A Palette of Sadness


"Feeling blue" is a phrase that resonates with many of us, encapsulating the experience of sadness, melancholy, and a heavy heart. In the world of art therapy, it's not just a cliché; it's a profound avenue for individuals to navigate the depths of their emotions and express the inexpressible. One can be encouraged to paint or create using various shades of blue to represent their emotions. The depth and tone of blue chosen can mirror the depth of one’s sadness, offering a safe and creative way to explore and process these emotions.


"Seeing Red" - The Fiery Passion of Anger


The idiom "seeing red" is a widely recognized expression that effectively conveys the experience of intense anger or frustration. In the realm of art therapy, this phrase takes on a profound significance, offering clients a unique opportunity to engage with the range of their anger and frustration in a structured and therapeutic manner. Whether engaging in abstract or representational art, the intensity of red can help one express and navigate their tumultuous feelings.


"Green with Envy" - Jealousy Unveiled


The phrase "Green with envy" vividly encapsulates the emotion of jealousy, and in the realm of art therapy, this expression takes on new meaning. Through the use of various green shades, individuals are invited to explore the intricate layers of envy. The color green, with its associations of growth, transformation, and sometimes, toxicity, becomes a symbolic tool for one to unpack the complexities of this emotion. By translating these emotions into visual art, one can gain a better understanding of the causes and consequences of their jealousy.


"Golden Opportunity" - Dreams Illuminated


"Golden opportunity" represents a chance for great success or a fortunate turn of events. In art therapy, clients can use gold or metallic colors to depict their dreams and aspirations. This visual journey can be a source of motivation and a reminder of the goals they're striving to achieve.


Emotions Through Color - Communicate Meaning


These idiomatic expressions, when integrated into art therapy, serve as bridges between our inner worlds and the canvas. The colors chosen, their intensity, and the overall artistic expression can help individuals better understand and communicate their emotions. Art therapists guide clients through this journey, fostering self-awareness, emotional expression, and ultimately, healing. Through this exploration of colors, art therapy becomes a transformative process for those seeking a deeper connection with their emotions and experiences.


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