The recent roundtable discussion titled Create to Navigate, hosted by Family 404 at NO END Contemporary Art Space, delved into the profound themes of ambiguous loss and the role of creativity in navigating emotional complexities.

Panelists

The discussion featured a panel of experts, including:

Psychologist, and former Family Advocate, Jurné le Roux
Family 404’s Nina Torr & Stephan Calitz
NO END representatives Maaike Bakker & Jayne Crawshay-Hall Robertson

The Role of Creativity

Creativity emerged as a powerful tool for individuals grappling with fragmented families. Panelists emphasised that artistic expression—whether through drawing, writing, or other forms—can help individuals articulate their feelings and experiences surrounding loss and separation. This creative process not only aids in emotional processing but also fosters conversations about difficult topics that are often avoided. By engaging in creative activities, children and adults alike can explore their internal worlds, making sense of their emotions in a supportive environment. The creative artefacts also serves as a reminder, an emotional archive of sorts, that one can reflect on and derive new meaning from past memories.

Importance of Community Support

The discussion highlighted the critical role of community support for families experiencing loss. Panelists noted that having a network of experts—psychologists, social workers, and legal advisors—provides a vital resource for sharing experiences and seeking advice. Meanwhile, one’s community, family and friends help manage the emotional toll of the situation, reinforcing the idea that emotional intelligence is essential for effective responses in navigating the situation.
Moreover, the panelist shared personal anecdotes illustrating how their own experiences shaped their understanding of clients’ struggles. They emphasised that empathy and connection are crucial in building trust with clients, particularly when dealing with sensitive issues related to trauma and family dynamics.

Navigating Ambiguous Loss

Ambiguous loss can create emotional turmoil for families. The panelists discussed how children often internalise feelings of loss without fully understanding them, leading to challenges in their identity and relationships. By fostering creativity and providing a supportive framework, adults can help alienated children navigate these complex emotions more effectively.

The findings underscored that creativity is not merely an artistic endeavour; it is a vital mechanism for healing and understanding within the context of ambiguous loss. Coupled with robust community support, it empowers families to confront their emotional realities, fostering resilience and connection in the face of adversity.