Party Building | “5.25” College Student Mental Health Festival Series: “Healing Voices of the Mind” Music-Painting Narrative Therapy Workshop

School of Design Party Branch – “5.25” SUSTech Mental Health Day Event

On the occasion of the “5.25” Mental Health Day at Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech), the School of Innovation and Design held a unique and heartwarming event: the “Healing Voices of the Mind” Music-Painting Narrative Therapy Workshop, offering students a special opportunity to relax and reconnect with their inner selves. The event was honored to welcome Mr. Liu Zhibin, head of the Music Therapy Team at Shenzhen Kangning Hospital, along with his team. Mr. Liu is a Certified Music Therapist in China, a National Level-2 Psychological Counselor, a Senior Health Manager, a VMC (China) Level 3 Drum Circle Facilitator, a Sesame Method Drama and Movement Therapy Facilitator, a Mindfulness Instructor and Supervisor, as well as a member of the Chinese Music Therapy Association and the Secretary-General of the Shenzhen branch of the Guangzhou Music Therapy Association.

Before the session began, participants sat in a large circle, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere. Mr. Liu’s team prepared a rich variety of instruments and placed them around the seating area. Students were encouraged to choose the instruments they were drawn to and familiarize themselves with them in preparation for the upcoming music therapy session.

As the workshop formally began, under Mr. Liu’s guidance, participants used their chosen instruments to gently tap along to rhythmic patterns. With tambourines, maracas, and more in hand, the initially tentative rhythms gradually became more harmonious through mutual attunement and cooperation. The session then transitioned into a guided meditation themed around “summer.” As soft, ambient music played, students closed their eyes and followed the rhythm of their breath, allowing themselves to feel the vibrant and emotional resonance of the season. With the aid of rhythm and movement, students were led into deeper introspection, gently releasing emotions and finding inner space to breathe and expand.

Following the meditation, students broke into small groups for a creative storytelling activity. Each group received a tablet and, with the assistance of AI tools, unleashed their imagination to craft distinctive stories. This process not only involved story creation but also served as a journey of self-exploration. Using musical instruments, each group presented their stories through spontaneous performance.

On stage, students combined music and dramatized performance to vividly bring their stories to life. The expressive interpretations allowed the audience to feel the emotional depth behind each narrative. Every group’s performance showcased unique styles, highlighting students’ emotional expressiveness and strong team collaboration skills.

After the performances, each group selected a representative to share reflections on the healing experience. Some students mentioned feeling a deep sense of calm and relaxation; others expressed how the integration of music, painting, and storytelling helped them better understand themselves and others. Several students shared how the workshop sparked creativity and uncovered new interests and potential within themselves. These sincere reflections deeply resonated with the entire audience, enhancing the meaning and impact of the workshop.

The “Healing Voices of the Mind” workshop concluded on a joyful note with group singing. Participants not only found enjoyment and relaxation, but also learned new ways to express and regulate emotions. A group photo captured the warm, memorable moment, leaving behind a cherished memory of this unique healing experience.

By integrating AI painting tools, storytelling, and improvisational music, the workshop created an immersive healing environment. It guided students to look inward, raise self-awareness, and tap into the transformative power of art to transcend the limits of language. Through emotional release and creative expression, the event fostered a supportive and socially connected atmosphere. It is hoped that students can carry forward the insights gained from this experience into their future studies and lives—facing challenges with renewed confidence and embracing a healthier, happier life.

Contributors | Wang Kezhuo, Qiu Chan, Dai Xincun
Photography | Chen Yonglin
Reviewed by | Li Xu, Li Xueliang