In the 40s, hegemonic psychiatry in Brazil turned to scientific and technological innovations and the consolidation of an organic vision of mental illness. Within this context, Nise da Silveira researched the development of clinical practice in the field of occupational therapy and analyzed results with an open mind. She organized and cared for the arenas and time required for developing the creative capacities, experimentation and artistic learning of the mentally ill. The high number and quality of the drawings and paintings produced in her studios have triggered intense scientific and artistic interest. Her work changed the monotonous and repetitive activities conducted within the framework of a mental hospital, bringing them closer to patients' actual needs and creating new possibilities of activity and participation in the world. Her work is a benchmark reference for current practices in occupational therapy. Art, culture and madness acquired new meanings after her.
Occupation therapy; Mental health; Art. Madness