“The experience of listening and interacting with different people and stories made me look at things from a different and more compassionate perspective"

What has led you to apply for an internship at The Red Pencil (Singapore)?

Since graduating with a Communications degree, I wanted to gain experience in a similar field that aligns with my passion for the arts. I stumbled upon The Red Pencil (Singapore) and learned of their mission and international contributions as a non-profit organisation using art therapy, a term I rarely heard of. I was intrigued by their use of creative arts as a therapy tool and wanted to gain first-hand experience in the matter.

How has your experience as a Marketing and Communications intern with The Red Pencil (Singapore) helped you to grow personally and professionally?

As my first internship, my role as a Marketing and Communications intern with The Red Pencil (Singapore) gave me exposure to creative arts therapy and the non-profit industry. Professionally, I became more aware of workplace ethics, as well as marketing and design terms, where most of my days in the office were spent on Canva and social media platforms. On a personal level, I think the experience of listening and interacting with different people and stories made me look at things from a different and more compassionate perspective.

Do you think having a creative outlet is important for self-expression?

Yes, having a creative outlet is undeniably important for self-expression as I believe it provides us with a means to express ourselves, explore our emotions, and communicate in ways that may be difficult to achieve through other forms of communication. I also find it easier to channel my emotions and thoughts into tangible forms through creative activities such as art, writing, music, and dance.

How successful do you think The Red Pencil (Singapore) has been at using art therapy to connect with people?

During my internship at The Red Pencil (Singapore), I witnessed collaborations with organisations of different sectors, from healthcare institutions to schools, and community centres. This made art therapy accessible to a wider population, to connect with individuals who may not have had access to creative arts therapy services.

One of my tasks involved going through multiple videos and transcripts of an interview with an art therapy workshop participant that has went through one of the workshops. Through the exposure, I learnt how everyday art materials and the guidance of an art therapist can make an impact on one's journey.

What are your hopes for The Red Pencil (Singapore)?

As a supporter of The Red Pencil (Singapore)'s mission, I only wish the best for the organization. Though mental health issues are still a stigma in Singapore, I hope that The Red Pencil (Singapore) continues to grow and expand in its reach, providing art therapy to an even larger and more diverse audience. 

What has been the most eventful part of your internship journey so far?

Meeting the amazing team behind The Red Pencil (Singapore)! When I first joined in April, I was unaware of their Art2Heart charity art exhibition taking place at the end of the month. Though everyone was busy planning and setting up for the event, they still took the time to guide me through my role as an intern. The team may be small but their hearts are full of love and compassion for the mission that they stand for!

How has working with The Red Pencil (Singapore) helped you in your understanding of art therapy?

Apart from gaining a better understanding of the craft (art therapy), working at The Red Pencil (Singapore) provided me with a greater appreciation for the creative arts as a therapeutic tool. The experience also inspired me to explore art therapy as a potential avenue for self-expression.

“The team may be small but their hearts are full of love and compassion for the mission that they stand for!"