The Power of Art: An Interview with Tommy Mix, Art Therapy Intern at Piece by Piece
At Piece by Piece, art is more than just creativity—it’s a tool for healing, empowerment, and transformation. This year, we’re thrilled to welcome Tommy Mix, an Art Therapy Intern from Loyola Marymount University’s Art Therapy Program, who is bringing his passion for art and mental health to our community. We caught up with Tommy to learn more about what drew him to Piece by Piece, his insights on art therapy, and what excites him most about working with our participant artists.
What drew you to Piece by Piece, and what excites you the most about working with our participant artists?
I was drawn to Piece by Piece because of its incredible mission to empower individuals through creativity and community. There’s something truly special about working alongside participant artists, seeing their unique strengths and expertise shine through their art. Their resilience, talent, and vision make every interaction a chance to learn and grow together. Art is such a powerful force for transformation, and I’m inspired every day by the way it fosters connection and self-expression in this space.
How do you see art therapy complementing the mission of Piece by Piece to empower individuals who have faced economic hardship and homelessness?
Art therapy aligns seamlessly with the mission of Piece by Piece by providing a space for healing, self-expression, and empowerment. For individuals who have experienced economic hardship or homelessness, art therapy can be a way to process difficult emotions, build confidence, and reconnect with personal strengths. The creative process allows participants to tell their stories in ways that words sometimes cannot, helping them transform challenges into resilience. It’s not just about making art—it’s about reclaiming a sense of agency in their lives.
What are some of the key therapeutic benefits of mosaic art that you’ve observed or expect to see in our participants?
Mosaic art is such a powerful medium because it offers both structure and creativity. The process of carefully placing pieces provides a sense of control, while also encouraging participants to embrace the unpredictability of the outcome. Learning to find beauty in imperfection is an important part of both art and life. This duality can be deeply therapeutic, fostering patience, resilience, and a sense of accomplishment as participants transform broken pieces into something whole and meaningful.
What do you hope to learn from your time at Piece by Piece, and how do you see it shaping your future career in art therapy?
More than anything, I hope to learn from the participant artists. Their creativity, resilience, and unique perspectives not only enrich their artwork but also the community that forms around it. I’m also grateful for those who hold space for them every day, creating an environment of support and growth. This experience will undoubtedly shape my future in art therapy by deepening my understanding of how creative expression can empower individuals and strengthen communities.
How do you create a safe and supportive environment for participants to express themselves through art, especially given the personal nature of the therapeutic process?
Creating a safe space starts with cultural humility, recognizing power dynamics, and engaging in self-reflection. By examining my own biases and privileges, I can better support participants in expressing themselves authentically. My goal is to ensure that everyone feels seen, heard, and empowered in their creative journey. Art is deeply personal, and it’s essential to foster an environment where participants feel comfortable exploring their emotions and sharing their stories.
Tommy’s insights highlight the profound impact that art therapy and creative expression can have on individuals facing hardship. We are so grateful to have him as part of the Piece by Piece community, and we look forward to seeing the meaningful connections he fosters through his work. Welcome, Tommy!
