I am a human, first :), an art therapist and occupational therapist working in social care in Bucharest. I work with various categories of beneficiaries such as: elderly persons in nursing homes, retirees attending day clubs, children and adults with disabilities, or adolescents in social centers. My role is all about improving the quality of every beneficiary's life through a series of really simple, but specific activities designed for them.
In those sessions and through a combination of creativity and therapeutic process, I work to build one's self esteem, coping skills, ability to recognize and communicate emotions, and provide a sense of achievement. People with whom I work, are often from marginalized social groups so community development is crucial. I strive to develop a warm and inviting feeling, in our sessions, where people can turn up to network, establish relationships and feel a sense of belonging.
At the day center for retired seniors, art sessions follow a more traditional format, lasting three to four hours. During these sessions, we explore various artistic tools and techniques, we learn important things about art history, and create both from life and from reference images. A key focus is encouraging participants to believe that, at any age, with patience and curiosity, they can develop new artistic styles.
These sessions are not just about the final artwork—they are about the creative journey. We emphasize the joy and therapeutic value of the process itself, helping seniors discover new ways of expressing themselves while fostering a sense of accomplishment, personal growth.
We had a special outdoor exhibition in the park, showcasing the artworks created by our senior. With the support of the local municipality, we were able to bring their creations into the heart of the community. For many of our seniors, the creative process is deeply meaningful, but having the opportunity to publicly share their work adds an important sense of purpose and fulfillment.
This event served as a celebration of their efforts, talent, and growth. It was a joyful and emotional moment for the participants to see their art appreciated, to feel seen and valued, and to connect with others through their creativity. Exhibiting their work in a public space gave visibility not only to their artistic voice, but also to the vibrant role they continue to play in the life of the community.
During the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, when social distancing kept us apart, we had to find creative ways to stay connected and continue our activities safely. With the senior participants from the “Râmnicul Sărat Day Center”, we took our art therapy sessions outdoors and began a unique project: painting a 45-meter-long, 2-meter-high fence in the courtyard of the "Senior Club."
Recognizing how important community and connection are, especially for seniors who often live alone, we designed a mural that represents life through the four seasons. Each section of the fence reflects a different stage of life, from the fresh beginnings of spring to the quiet reflection of winter. The idea was to create a visual journey that mirrors both the natural cycle and the human experience.
Despite the summer heat, our senior artists, including our oldest participant who is 86 years old, were enthusiastic and deeply committed. This project gave them a sense of purpose and joy, as they gradually transformed the space they spend much of their time in. More than just a mural, the artwork stands as a symbol of resilience, community, and the power of creativity to bring people together, even at a distance.
In addition to leading art sessions, part of my role is to accompany seniors to exhibitions and help them engage with innovative cultural events. These outings are essential in broadening their perspectives and keeping them connected to the evolving world of art and creativity.
Last year, we visited the interactive art museum MINA, where our senior participants experienced a completely new and immersive approach to art. For many of them, it was their first time encountering digital and interactive installations, so different from the classical art forms they were familiar with. The experience sparked curiosity, joy, and meaningful conversations, proving that it's never too late to explore, learn, and be inspired by new artistic expressions.
Beyond learning about art, our group of 24 seniors, participants has become a true community. We regularly gather not only for creative sessions, but also to celebrate personal milestones birthdays and other meaningful events that bring joy and connection into our shared space.
I feel incredibly grateful to be part of such a lively and inspiring group, regardless of the average age. Working with seniors who carry a lifetime of experiences has taught me so much. Not just professionally, but personally. This opportunity has been more enriching than any other job I’ve had, and I truly feel that I’ve gained far more than I’ve given.
As an art therapist working with adolescents in the social care system, I see the therapeutic aspect of my work come to life more powerfully than ever. Adolescence is a complex and challenging stage on its own, but for these young people, who come from difficult social backgrounds and often carry heavy emotional burdens, the struggles are even greater.
Many of them face stigma, low self -esteem, and a lack of consistent emotional support. Through art therapy, I offer them a safe space to express themselves freely, process their emotions, and begin to understand their own inner world. In our group sessions, art becomes both a tool for healing and a language of connection. The sense of belonging they find within the group, and the opportunity to be seen and heard without judgment, makes a significant difference in their journey toward resilience and self -worth.
We organized exhibitions where the children had the opportunity to invite their friends and take the stage to talk about their artworks and what art means to them. It was a meaningful moment of expression and pride, allowing them to share their voices and experiences in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Together with children from the social care system, we painted murals for a center dedicated to Ukrainian refugees. The goal was to help make the space provided by the social services more welcoming and comfortable, so that young refugees could continue their studies here in Romania in a supportive environment.
Through these collaborative projects, we’ve also aimed to integrate minority groups into our local community, one of the most meaningful outcomes of the art therapy sessions I lead in the social care system. I truly believe that working together, side by side, brings people closer and helps create new, inclusive communities. Art becomes more than self-expression; it becomes a bridge between people, cultures, and experiences.
In my personal art studio, I host creative workshops for children from the social care system, children who, all too often, rarely experience genuine appreciation or encouragement. Here, they are free to express themselves without judgment. I actively encourage them to explore their emotions and try anything that comes to mind, no matter how unusual or uncertain it may feel.
Many of them arrive with a deep fear of making mistakes, shaped by difficult life experiences. But in art, there are no mistakes, only expression. The safe and supportive space I offer, helps them let go of that fear and begin to discover who they are. That’s why I received approval from the system to bring them into my personal studio, where they can experience the freedom, trust, and creativity that every child deserves.
