The applied arts therapy is a specialized form of therapy widely used in European countries, particularly effective for individuals with intellectual developmental delays and mental health challenges. This therapeutic approach incorporates various visual and creative activities and encompasses multiple artistic fields.

Individuals with intellectual developmental delays and mental health challenges are among the most vulnerable groups, facing difficulties in accessing formal education, participating in various art circles, and finding employment. Additionally, there is a lack of tailored services, circles, illustrated manuals, and adaptive teaching methodologies suited to their needs.

In the applied arts workshop at the day center, a multidisciplinary team has developed illustrated, visually enhanced, simplified, and adapted materials, including video lessons designed for individuals with intellectual developmental delays. These materials are illustrated with large fonts and modified visuals. Sewing activities, for instance, help improve fine motor skills and concentration. Within the project, materials required for the workshop were acquired, including various fabrics (silk, staple), felt, and materials for decorating souvenirs.

Both theoretical and practical sessions were held for young people with disabilities, their parents, and supporters to create handmade souvenirs using various fabrics, felt materials, and sewing techniques. The applied arts workshop created thematic handmade souvenirs, including: - Fabric-based souvenirs and decorations, such as: - Hair accessories in various fabric designs - Silk headscarves and scarves - Fabric necklaces - Fabric earrings - Fabric bags - Christmas table runners and mats - Christmas tablecloths - Felt material souvenirs, including: - Felt bottle holders as Christmas souvenirs - Felt candy holders as souvenirs

Why is it important to prepare visual, modified, illustrated, and text-based theoretical materials and video lessons? What methodology was used for working with individuals with intellectual developmental delays? The project divided tasks into operations, creating visual and text-based methodical materials and video lessons that prevent fatigue and support gradual development. These resources expand interests and enable individuals to express emotions, overcome fears and isolation, learn new skills, and harmonize their thoughts and feelings. Sewing and art therapy techniques help them discover and develop their abilities, overcome aggression, negativity, and boost self-esteem.

The implementation of this project has been impactful and resonates within the community. The approach of teaching through applied arts therapy techniques, electronic video lessons, and illustrated, adapted text-based materials helps establish a new method of therapeutic handmade souvenir creation. During these activities, individuals with disabilities actively participate alongside the therapist, strengthening self-belief, self-development, self-worth, and the ability to overcome communication challenges, isolation, and develop independent skills for social integration.

End of Project Event: On October 31, a closing event for the project “Applied Arts - A Path to Integrate People with Disabilities into Society” was held at the organization’s exhibition space, located at 13 Tskhalsadeni Street, Gldani district. Souvenirs created by people with disabilities in the applied arts workshop were presented to the public. Special thanks to Tbilisi City Hall's Department of Culture, Education, Sports, and Youth Affairs for their support.