Honoring Orly: Art Therapy Projects

By Megan Holder | June 3, 2012
This past Friday we shared Rickey Bevington’s story. She is one of many family members whose life was forever altered by the Orly plane crash 50 years ago today. In addition to their children and grandchildren, the legacy of those Atlantans who died lives on in the incredible arts legacy that now thrives in the City. The arts also play an important role in the grieving process. Today we are sharing three different art activities that can help a child who is experiencing grief.
Have the child paint or draw a picture of  their loved one who died on the outside of the bag. For the inside on separate pages, have them draw pictures of or write about favorite memories with that loved one. If they have keepsakes or pictures, they could also be placed inside the bag.
 
At the Children’s Room in Massachusetts, teens perform original skits and uplifting performances after someone has died. This idea can be replicated by having the child write a short story about their loved one and read it aloud.
Sometimes finding words can be hard. Share other books of poetry and read them with the child. Have them begin writing words that express how they feel. From there they will grow into thoughts and phrases.
Would you like to share your story? Please contact us at [email protected]
Posted in art therapy and grief, children and grief, Official Blog Post, Orly plane crash, performance art, poetry