When Joyce Laing first started in the field of art therapy, not much research had been conducted to find out what kind of impact it could have on a patient. Laing had observed the development of certain patients’ work and noticed the links between the art works and the patient’s health. This was to be the start of a long career, exploring the effects and benefits of art therapy. Phoebe Cottam explores Laing’s experiences and history in this field, as part of a longer project in development.