Psychorealism

This book brings Grace Pailthorpe's previously unpublished work to readers for the very first time and explores the profound impact of early childhood development on one's psychological well-being. Through her innovative concept of psychorealism, Pailthorpe offers a unique blend of art and psychoanalysis aimed at understanding and balancing the human psyche. The book delves into the mechanisms by which infants develop fundamental psychological patterns. Pailthorpe argues that understanding these early developmental stages is crucial for addressing psychological imbalances. Psychorealism, as she defines it, involves creating art free from conscious interference, allowing for the pure expression of psychic realities. This form of automatic creativity offers fresh insights into the symbolic essence of the psyche and its influence on human behaviour. By analysing psychorealistic art, Pailthorpe illuminates the complex facets of human behaviour and provides a novel perspective on the interplay between the unconscious mind and artistic expression. Pailthorpe's research stands out for its originality and practical application. Her work not only enriches the field of psychoanalysis but also provides valuable tools for therapeutic practices. This book is particularly useful for psychologists, art therapists, and scholars interested in the intersections of art and psychology, offering new methods for understanding and treating psychological issues through creative expression. This approach will also appeal to general readers, librarians, and booksellers with its intriguing integration of art and psychology.

Lee Ann Montanaro, Ph.D., is a university lecturer and researcher. She specialises in 20th-century literature and art. Her research interests include surrealism, psychoanalysis, modernism, and comparative literature. Alberto Stefana, Ph.D., Psy.D., serves as a clinical psychologist and psychotherapist in conjunction with his role as an academic researcher. He published over one hundred articles on clinical psychology, psychoanalysis, and psychiatry in international journals.

Introduction by Lee Ann Montanaro and Alberto Stefana 1 The Springboard of Thought 2 Symbol Language 3 The Application of Symbol Language in Early Life 4 Art as Communication, and for Gratification 5 The Destructive Impulse 6 The Destructive Impulse Revealed Through the Language of Symbols 7 Psychorealism 8 Individual and Collective Benefits of Psychorealism 9 The Creative Impulse 10 Creative Fantasy 11 Psychorealism, the Artist, and the 'Impersonal' in Art 12 The Way Ahead