Psychovisual Metaphorism

An Educational and Artistic Exploration

 

Origins and Early Goals

Psychovisual Metaphorism was developed in 2014 as an educational-artistic project by Aleksandar Tesanovic during his tenure as an assistant in Dr. Marek Wosinski’s Effective Thinking class at Arizona State University. The project emerged from Tesanovic’s collaboration with Dr. Wosinski, within the framework of the professor’s life coaching program, which focused on exploring therapeutic approaches to improve mental well-being.
Initially, the project aimed to visualize mental disorders, psychological symptoms, and trauma through surrealist art. The primary goal was to use artistic expression to make the complexities of mental health conditions more comprehensible to both professionals and the general public. By transforming intangible experiences into visual representations, the project sought to foster awareness, empathy, and deeper psychological understanding.

 

Evolving Focus: From Diagnosis to Healing

 

While the early phase of Psychovisual Metaphorism was centered on illustrating mental distress, its current focus has shifted toward visualizing desired emotional states, healing, and psychological liberation. Instead of merely depicting suffering, contemporary works within this framework now emphasize resilience, transformation, and the journey toward well-being. This evolution aligns with a broader therapeutic approach, using surrealist imagery not just as a reflection of psychological states but as a tool for guiding individuals toward personal growth and healing.

 

Applications and Psychological Benefits

 

Psychovisual Metaphorism has significant applications in both educational and therapeutic settings. In psychology, it can be used as an expressive arts therapy tool, allowing individuals to externalize emotions, confront subconscious fears, and reimagine their mental landscapes in a way that promotes self-awareness and healing. For therapists, it provides an innovative method to help patients articulate their internal experiences visually, which can be particularly useful in cases of trauma, anxiety, or depression. Additionally, workshops and interactive exhibitions can serve as platforms for discussion and education, bridging the gap between mental health professionals, artists, and the public.

 

Artistic Goals and Uses

 

Beyond its psychological applications, Psychovisual Metaphorism expands the possibilities of surrealist art by integrating scientific and emotional narratives into visual storytelling. Artists working within this framework push the boundaries of imagination, using symbolism, dreamlike compositions, and abstract forms to communicate complex inner worlds. The movement challenges traditional representations of mental health in art, shifting the focus from disorder to transformation. This approach not only deepens the artistic experience but also provides a meaningful connection between the artist, the subject, and the viewer.

 

Conclusion: A New Vision for Art and Psychology

 

Psychovisual Metaphorism stands at the intersection of art, psychology, and education. By evolving from a purely diagnostic approach to one that emphasizes healing and aspiration, it offers a new way of understanding and addressing mental health through creative expression. Whether applied in therapy, education, or contemporary art, this method continues to explore the profound connection between the mind and imagery, shaping a future where art is not only a reflection of struggle but also a guide toward emotional liberation.