Abstract

This paper studies active imagination as discovered by Jung, deriving from alchemy, who, during a period of disorientation, began to reconnect with himself through a return to play. I will thus apply active imagination to a case study and will draw a parallel between fantasy, myth and the client. The aim of my paper is to broaden our view of active imagination, its goals and how it interacts with the psyche. This will enable us to gain a better understanding of the client, the process by which the active imagination enters into contact with the psyche, as well as its aims and advantages within art therapy. More specifically, I will address the process of individuation. As a precursor, I will make reference to the major ideas in my previous research paper. Then, I will demonstrate how active imagination and art therapy are both methods by which an exploration of the unconscious is made possible. Both techniques allow for self-discovery and reparation, but more importantly promote self-awareness. This study brings forth a new perspective to art therapy, through the application of active imagination as an auxiliary, depending on the immediate needs of the client.