Lisandra Morales

LEI4724
Activity File 1
Activity Title: Music Painting
Source: Rhodes, A. "Paint to Music." Recreation Therapy. 23 Mar. 2003. Web. 10 Sept. 2015
Equipment: Water based paint, sponges, and/or paint brushes, a large sheet of heavy paper (or
canvas), aprons, water, mixing tray, and music
Description of Activity:
The objective of this activity is to make the participants take time to focus on their feelings and
display their emotions on their paintings. Therapist will moderate the discussion. They will first
practice listening to a short clip of audio and gather feedback from the participants. Select a
dramatic piece of music. Perhaps a popular song they can be familiar with. Turn off the lights
and have the participants close their eyes and listen. You may choose to stop the music when you
feel appropriate. Encourage participants to cover the paper or canvas with colors that can reflect
the mood they felt while the music played. You can repeat this exercise with another piece of
music. Remember everyones art is a master piece. The participants painting describes what they
felt while painting.
Leadership Considerations:
This activity should be done with a maximum of 15 participants. Make sure to have tables for
some individuals and have painting easels for others that will need to stay in their wheelchairs.
The therapist will explain how the activity will be done and ask questions to see if everyone
comprehends. Ask the participants how the song made them feel and how do certain colors make
them feel. Explain to the participants how listening to music and their emotions come together.
This can increase their self esteem and feel accomplished, especially for those that don't think
they are any good at painting.
Adaptations:
Participants with Autism: Remember to be considerate with those participants that are Autistic.
Not everyone reacts the same with particular songs. Be aware that autistic participants can be
sensitive to loud noises. Perhaps try a different method with them and offer them headphones.
Some like to have the music blasted but depending on their choice of song. You can also try
lowering the music one level at a time to see how loud they can feel comfortable enough to
continue with the activity and actually enjoy it.
Participants with Physical Disability: Be alert that a participant with physical disability might not
be able to grab a paint brush. For example, if a participant suffers from Cerebral Palsy they wont
be able to properly grab a paint brush. You can try adding a cylinder foam sponge around the
paint brush to help them grab it better since a paint brush can be very narrow for them.