Vanguard DocMakers (VDM) is a “documentary filmmaking program for youth, ages 18-24, impacted by systems of injustice, such as housing insecurity, criminal justice involvement, and mental health challenges.” Integrating art therapy with filmmaking has posed a challenge as VDM has relied on Licensed Creative Arts Therapists (LCAT) who do not directly specialize in filmmaking-related art therapy. This gap has led to challenges in balancing therapeutic practices with technical film training, limiting student engagement and emotional growth. To address this, VDM aims to develop a new curriculum that merges art therapy with filmmaking techniques to improve their programming. Maysles’ goal is to create tools and exercises that help students process personal challenges while developing technical skills.
The Maysles Institute will develop a new curriculum to better integrate art therapy into their filmmaking programming.
