The innovative essence of the El Duende one-canvas method

Abstract

The innovative essence of El Duende one-canvas process painting (EDPP) is in the ongoing experience of having continual encounters with change processes on one surface over time. The dynamic between what stays and what is lost is explored from multiple perspectives. Progressive photographs reflect a visual sequence of transformative states for therapists, clients and trainees to experientially learn through their own art processes. Subsequent research explored the impacts of this unique process, guided by art-informed discovery and the primacy of an artist’s vision. Five phases and four core elements of the paradoxical method emerged as scaffolding to explore the inevitability of change. The use of art-based research is central to each phase of the practice discoveries described. The importance of one-canvas process painting is highlighted in relation to reflective practice in art therapy. The approach’s contributions towards art-based supervision and as an ongoing form of response art are also considered.