Mycelial Network
Community-based, connective Arts Therapy practice
The Mycelial Network is based around Arts Therapy practice that focuses on the relational infrastructure within the field. This terrain is all about connection and support and often includes work that takes place behind the scenes. Work in this field is based on creating and maintaining the connective threads between practitioners, communities and organisations and ensures the field remains supported and interconnected.
Working in this terrain, you might find yourself organising Art Therapy-related events, online communities and peer support groups. You may also organise conferences or community-building events, helping practitioners to connect and share knowledge, ultimately strengthening the field.
Another aspect of the mycelial network is working towards creating partnerships between Art Therapy organisations, healthcare providers and schools, working behind the scenes to advocate for our field and ensure it remains an sought after and vital component in larger systems.
Rhizomic Musings: A Reflection:
A thought piece on rhizomic thinking in artmaking and healing can be found HERE. The reflection explores emergence and connection at a practice level, but can also mirror how relationships and networks can form across the Arts Therapy field.
Sustainability and limits
Much of the work in this area may go unnoticed, a little like the mycelial networks we often dont see under our feet- but it is a very important terrain. In order to work sustainably within the Mycelial Network, you may require clear relational boundaries, robust reflective practice, and mutual support to avoid possible overextension. Without these supports, there is a risk of emotional fatigue or invisible labour which can continue to go unacknowledged. Everyone likes a bit of acknowledgement right?
In context to the wider ecology
By strengthening connections between practitioners, communities and organisations, this terrain helps sustain the conditions that allow other terrains and forms of practice to flourish. Ultimately, this terrain supports continued growth and evolution of the broader Arts Therapy field.
Species found in the Mycelial Network
Although practitioners may move and migrate across multiple terrains in the Arts Therapy Ecology Map, the following species are often at home within the Mycelial Network:
Mycelial Weavers
Myclieal weavers work behind the scenes to build the infrastructure that supports the field. They help support and resource the wider ecology by serving as the organisational element behind conferences, PDs, and resource-sharing platforms. They may even sit in committee groups for membership bodies, advocating for the field, fostering community support networks and creating pathways for cross sector partnerships.
Bridge Builders
In the Mycelial Network, Bridge Builders support collaboration across different systems and contexts. They help link Arts Therapy practioners and organisations, with other sectors such as health, education, or community services. They also assist in coordinating joint initiatives or partnerships..
Pathfinders
These practitioners notice emerging needs or gaps within the field. They enjoy identifying new directions, initiatives and opportunities for connection within the Arts Therapy community as it continues to evolve.
Want to Explore More?
Lookout: The Bog of Realities
Have a bit of a giggle but don’t get stuck - the realities of practice can get a bit boggy…
Curious about other species?
Explore the different species found across the Ecology Map
Practitioner Portraits
Reflective portraits of practice across the wider ecology
