Magical Realism & Art Therapy: Inspired by Marc Chagall

Marc Chagall, Over the Town, 1918, oil on canvas, 45 × 56 cm. Tretyakov Gallery, Moscow. 

At our studio, we draw inspiration from Marc Chagall, whose paintings blend folklore, dreams, and memory in a soft, lyrical world that transcends ordinary reality. His floating figures, symbolic animals, and poetic landscapes invite us into a space of imagination — a “magical realism” that feels emotionally true, even if physically impossible.

Why use Chagall-style art in therapy?

• It helps you access deeper feelings and memories that are hard to name in words.

• Symbolic elements (animals, floating people, dream-like scenes) honor your inner experience without being too literal.

• Fantasy offers a safe container for exploring grief, longing, love, or change.

• Your creative expression becomes a bridge: from your inner world to your present self, and toward integration and healing.

What happens in a session?

1. We begin with a gentle introduction: exploring Chagall’s style as a metaphor for emotional truth.

2. You freely create — using watercolors, pastels, gouache, or mixed media — without concern for “realistic” accuracy.

3. Together, we reflect on your imagery. What symbols emerged? What feelings came into view?

4. We explore how those symbols relate to your life: relationships, hopes, challenges.

5. You may choose to make a second piece — a transformation of the first — or just sit with what arose.

6. We close with a reflection, giving space for insight and meaning to emerge.

Who might benefit?This approach is especially helpful for anyone who:

• feels disconnected from their emotions

• carries powerful memories or dreams

• struggles to articulate inner experiences in words

• seeks to tap into their imaginative or spiritual life

Whether you’re drawn to Chagall’s floating lovers or his poetic use of color, this style of art therapy invites you to explore with wonder — not judgment — and to find your own myths, metaphors, and meaning.