Dear Potomac Art Therapy Association Members,
I hope you are all enjoying your summer so far!
It has been six months since I have stepped into the role of president of the Potomac Art Therapy Association and it has been an exciting ride so far. With the tremendous efforts of the board, we have been able to fill the first part of the year with amazing programming.
Events have included the film viewing of The Cats of Mirikatani at Bus Boys & Poets; collaboration with MATA, VATA and GWU to provide a well-received symposium featuring Cathy Malchiodi on art therapy and trauma; and participation in the Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day art action event bringing art therapy to 54 invigorating 3-5 year olds. In addition, our student representatives hosted a fun meet and greet evening with GWU students and area professionals. It has been a pleasure to see so many members, as well as those just interested in art therapy, come out to support us.
I would like to share two exciting opportunities for those who may be interested in becoming a more active participant in the Potomac Art Therapy Association.
First, as board members move on to pursue their professional development in other areas, we currently have a couple of executive positions open on our board. Being a board member is a great way to help support the growth of art therapy both locally and nationally. In collaboration with other area professionals, you can lend your voice and expertise to help bring awareness of the benefits of our modality to the community, while helping to grow and stabilize our field. It is also a great way to network and share resources and ideas. If you are interested in becoming a more active member, and would like some additional information about the board positions, please let us know.
Second, many of you may already know that the 2011 AATA Conference will be held in our nation’s capital! Along with the other local area chapters, PATA will be acting as host for all local events taking place during the conference. The conference is being held from July 6-July 10th at the Marriot Wardman Park Hotel, Washington, DC. The Local Arrangements Committee has already begun brainstorming and some exciting themes and ideas have already emerged. Being in the nation’s capital, we plan to take full advantage of all that the area has to offer. We would be happy to have your help and support. If you are interested at all in becoming a committee member or just lending a helping hand to organize the events, please let us know.
Thank you for your continuous support. We look forward to bringing you additional programming throughout the remainder of the year as well as an exciting conference in 2011!!
Sincerely,
President, Potomac Art Therapy Association
