Opening Reception: Eric Spruth, MA, ATR: Art Therapy & Tarot

Art Therapy & Tarot: The Importance of Symbol; Then Now, and Forevermore

By Eric Dean Spruth, MA, ATR

November 18, 2022 – February 12, 2023

Opening Reception: November 18, 2022, 6:00PM – 8:00PM Free

Eric Dean Spruth, MA, ATR (Ph.D. Candidate, Walden University) is a highly accomplished art therapist, practicing in fields across disciplines, including his therapeutic works and services within tattooing, music, writing, body casting; mastering many art media in the name of service as an art therapist, in service to his special needs populations across the country and around the world. In “Art Therapy & Tarot: The Importance of Symbol; Then Now, and Forevermore,” Spruth gives us a look into his most recent works, encompassing a collage set of 78 tarot cards and the craft, history, and cultural importance of the media. The borderless symbolism surrounding tarot is not of one person but all people. Through the tarot deck, Spruth connects the importance of creating art in unique ways as therapy for not only his patients but also himself.

It’s been a long and winding road for Eric Dean Spruth, MA, ATR with an evolution from his childhood doodling mad-boy to a profoundly spiritual, psychological, and personal approach to the world of fatherhood, tattooing, and art therapy he has today. Symbolism and art in tarot can be seen in the art of tattoo that the artist produces with clients in his nonprofit studio, Sacred Transformations/ TATTOO ART THERAPY. Tattoo is not only an art form but also a tool of healing for Mr. Spruth. Spruth and his clients share a deep investment in both the process and the product of tattoo. Spruth considers the art therapy process, including tattooing, as an act of empowerment and a tool for expressing intrinsic experiences.

This exhibition is done in connection with a programming series including artist talks, guest speakers in the field, and engagement events all surrounding the importance of Art Therapy and topics of healing, empowerment, remembrance, symbolism, and rebirth. For schedule information, visit imss.org.

For more information visit https://imss.org/art-therapy-and-tarot/

Eric Dean Spruth, MA, ATR. Judgement Major Arcana Tarot Card #20. 2022. Collage Art.

About the Artist: Eric Dean Spruth MA, ATR (Ph.D. Candidate) is a trained artist, graduating from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago with an undergraduate degree in fine art with a minor in Psychology and Philosophy and a Master’s Degree in Art Therapy. He has served as a professor at the Adler School of Professional Psychology Art Therapy program and expressive art therapist within the Cook County Bureau of Health Cermak Health Services/ Cook County Jail, as well as a certified Hospital Bedside Magician offering Magic Therapy with Open Heart Magic. Additionally, Spruth is the founder of Sacred Transformation / TATTOO ART THERAPY collaborating with various human service agencies across the country and around the world including human trafficking programs, mental health programs, and correctional centers. Spruth’s efforts have been featured and recognized by many forms of media, including National Public Radio, Chicago Tonight, Chicago Tribune, The National Health Care, WTTW City Talk, Chicago Reader, WGN TV Morning News, Lakelife Magazine, and many many Tattoo Magazines. Spruth has received many awards and recognition in his field, both as an artist, art therapist, and tattooist.

Thank you to our custom framing sponsor, Practical Angle!

Practical Angle Frame Shop and Art Gallery, 161 E Erie St, Chicago, IL 60618

If you have needs for Custom Framing, please consider their 27 years of service in this vital industry. An entire team dedicated to meeting your desired outcome. Many thanks to Mr. Paul Davey for this very significant contribution

This project is partially supported by a CityArts Grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events.

The International Museum of Surgical Science acknowledges support from the Illinois Arts Council Agency.