San Francisco Arts Commission Funds "Clown Therapy" Program

February 3, 2009

Children in Edgewood ARTS. (Art and Recreation Therapeutic Services) are clowning around thanks to a grant from the San Francisco Arts Commission funding Clown Therapy. Part of an innovative new programming mix being developed on Edgewood’s San Francisco Campus, Edgewood ARTS. offers visual and performing art classes like Clown Therapy with the goal of teaching vulnerable youth new ways of creative expression and self discovery.

The clowning classes use character development, acrobatics, circus arts and creative play as a means of helping emotionally disturbed and physically or developmentally challenged youth. “They can meet their idiosyncrasies in a positive, creative and humorous manner,” says Edgewood ARTS. program manager Melusina Gomez. 

Two clown teachers in full make-up and costume meet with the kids twice a week to teach juggling, acrobatics, circus tricks, and clown character.  They create a fun environment wherein kids can leave their ‘civilian’ selves behind for an hour, choose a clown name for the day, and play with the trials and tribulations of life through exaggeration, silliness and a sense of control.

In the classes, kids are encouraged to explore their physical differences, their emotions and their self image. For many, developing a clown character allows them to express themselves with greater openness. For kids who have endured abuse, neglect or crisis, the effect is not only creatively expansive, it is psychologically therapeutic. 
 
After a successful performance for friends and family in October, Edgewood’s clowns are getting ready for their second show which is scheduled for March.

“It has been a great pleasure to watch the kids form friendships, find new talents and express themselves in a light hearted manner,” says Gomez. “These are very important areas of growth for our kids. Clown Therapy is fast becoming an essential component of Edgewood’s art therapy offerings.”