Investigation of the effects of visual arts applications on self-expression and emotional state in patients treated in the oncology department

The aim of this study is to examine the effects of visual arts applications on patients diagnosed with cancer andd treated in the oncology department. These effects were determined as the effects on the patients' mood and self-expression levels. The research was conducted as a case study, which is one of the qualitative research designs. The study group of the research consists of 5 patients between the ages of 16-60 who were diagnosed with cancers at Turgut Özal Medical Center Oncology Hospital. Art practices consisting of 6 sessions of 1-2 hours were performed for each patient. The interval of sessions is determined as an average of one week, depending on the patient's health. Before the first session, personal forms prepared for the patients were filled out. By comparing the painting made by the patients in the first session with the painting they made in the last session, the opinion of an art educator was sought in terms of expressing themselves, and the opinion of an expert psychologist was sought in determining their emotional states.During the sessions, the researcher observed and took necessary notes. After the last session, the patients were asked to write an evaluation letter aiming to obtain information about the changes in their emotional state and self-expression. As a result of the research, it was observed that there were positive effects on the patients' mood and self-expression levels by analyzing the collected data. It has been observed that cancer patients have gained various perspectives in order to use different methods, with the progress in their self-expression levels through artistic practices, and that there have been positive changes in their emotional states The research emphasizes that the healing power of art can be used in the treatment process of cancer patients and that this method should be used widely. In this regard, it is recommended to create opportunities for cancer patients to apply visual art practices and art therapy methods to patients, as they can be more successful in expressing themselves and their emotions through visual arts, which is a new language they learn. Key Words: Cancer, art, visual arts practices, art therapy