Working in a troubled land: Using the applied arts towards conflict transformation and community health in Israel

This article will describe teaching philosophies, pedagogical approaches and experiences in community outreach programmes developed by the author and other colleagues within the context of the Lesley University Extension Program in Israel. Studies of conflicts with both children and adults throughout Israel suggest a society permeated by the psychological stress and trauma associated with dislocation, conflict and violence. This article intends to contribute to an understanding of applied arts-based approaches to working with similarities and differences between the self and others in order to build a more tolerant and peaceful culture in Israel. Artists, educators, community workers, mental health counsellors and health professionals need additional tools with which to deal with these psychological issues in order to enable the process of building a more tolerant society and promoting peace. Examples will be drawn from conferences, events and other community outreach activities.