Features & Details
Primary Category: Fine Art
Additional Categories: Arts & Theraphy
Project Size: 2.5” x 3.5”
# of Cards: 14
Author ········· Ally Zlatar
Medium ········· Print & Digital
Published ······ 2023
Language ······· English
Medium ········· Print & Digital
Published ······ 2023
Language ······· English
behind the smoke
art-based reflection cards
for tobacco and drug-use addiction
artworks by ally zlatar
The Behind the Smoke Reflection Cards, created by artist and activist Ally Zlatar, are a carefully curated collection designed to address the complexities of tobacco and drug addiction. Featuring evocative artworks, these cards serve as a platform for introspection and personal growth. With diverse prompts and exercises, users can explore their relationship with substances, employ cognitive behavioral techniques, and examine cultural and traditional influences. The cards are adaptable and particularly effective for those seeking alternative paths in their recovery journey, whether for confronting emotions, rediscovering themselves, or expressing experiences through art in a supportive and safe space.
These inclusive cards consider often overlooked aspects of addiction, such as cultural influences, identity, belonging, peer pressure, isolation, and trauma intersectionality. Their digital accessibility extends their transformative potential to individuals without access to traditional therapy or support resources. Behind the Smoke Reflection Cards are a valuable tool for artists, therapists, and individuals dealing with addiction-related issues. They foster creativity and introspection, providing a powerful resource that empowers individuals on their journey toward self-discovery and healing.
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Content Warning: These cards tackle mental health, including addiction, drug use, and trauma. Use them at your comfort, considering your own experiences.
User Guide
Choose a card
Begin by selecting one of the themed cards that resonates with you the most.
Reflect on the prompt
Read the reflective prompt associated with the card you've chosen. Take some time to reflect on the questions asked, and journal your thoughts and feelings.
Create art
Once you've spent some time reflecting, use the prompt to guide your art creation. You may choose to draw, paint, or create in any other medium that feels right for you.
Reflect on your art
Take a few moments to reflect on the art you've created. What emotions does it evoke? What insights have you gained about your experiences?
Repeat
You may choose to repeat this process with the other cards, or with the same card at a later time. The cards can be used as a tool for ongoing self-reflection and healing.
Mediums
There are so many to chose from perhaps try drawing, poetry, body movement, photography or even collage making to start this process.
Elements
Think of your use lines, colors or diverse shapes to represent your emotions around your experiences.
Subject Matter
It can be abstract, an object, a memory or perhaps create a self-portrait that reflects your experiences and on-going journey.
Remember that there are no right or wrong ways to create art. Allow yourself to be open and honest with your feelings, and use your creativity to express yourself in a way that feels authentic to you.
Disclaimer: The Starving Artist art-based reflection cards are not a substitute for therapy. While they may provide support for individuals dealing with indvidual’s wellbeing mental health issues, they should be used in conjunction with professional support based on indviduals needs. The creators of these cards do not assume responsibility for any negative consequences resulting from the use of these cards, and urge users to seek professional help as needed.
the starving artist © 2025
All images and content are copyright of The Starving Artist & the artists featured.
They cannot be reproduced without explicit authorization and credits.