Resoantor is proud to present an exhibition by our resident Art Therapy instructor, Soni Parsons!
Soni Parsons is an accomplished acrylic painter and mixed media artist known for her vibrant use of colors, textures, and words in her artwork. With a strong local presence, she has exhibited her pieces in various galleries and festivals in Oklahoma City, Duncan, and Norman.
Parsons has a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with endorsements in science and art, as well as a Master's degree in Human Relations focusing on counseling. She is also a licensed professional counselor and a registered art therapist, combining her artistic talents with her therapeutic skills.
In her professional journey, she has taught art therapy classes at the University of Oklahoma and has led an art program called freshstART at the Homeless Alliance in Oklahoma City. Her leadership in the field is reflected in her role as a current member and past president of the Oklahoma Art Therapy Association. Currently, she is facilitating a public art therapy group at Resonator in Norman, further expanding her impact in the community.
ANGST : Artist’s Statement
My body of work is deeply reflective of my inner turmoil. The combination of textures, colors, and words expresses my reactions to current events and offers a unique perspective on how art can serve as a lens through which we understand and process the world around us. Utilizing paint along with old newspaper clippings is a powerful way to juxtapose the past with the present, highlighting the evolution of societal issues and personal emotions.
Incorporating elements like trees and moons shows a connection to the environment. Bold colors, textures, and words add layers of symbolism and depth to the pieces. Mannequins are used to represent the human experience and societal roles, while trees often symbolize life, growth, and connectedness to nature, and moons can reflect phases and change.
Inspired by Basquiat, Matisse, and Frida Kahlo, this work brings together a rich diversity of styles and emotional depth. Basquiat’s raw expressionism and social commentary, Matisse’s vibrant use of color and form, and Kahlo’s deeply personal and symbolic narratives all contribute to a robust foundation for my artwork. Incorporating vivid colors to express strong emotions can create an immediate impact and engage viewers on a visceral level.