Kamal Narendra Naran

Overview

Kamal Naran is an artist and HPCSA registered Art Therapist in South Africa. Completing his Masters in Art Therapy at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) in 2023, he stands as a member of the inaugural cohort of South African art therapists. Kamal serves as an Assistant Lecturer in the Art Therapy and Visual Arts department at UJ, contributing to both practice and academia. As one of the first Art Therapists to intern at a University center for psychological services, Kamal showcases a commitment to integrating art therapy into diverse therapeutic settings. His educational journey includes an Honours degree in both Fine Arts from the University of Pretoria, and with distinction in Art Therapy from UJ. With extensive experience in the non-profit sector, particularly at Lefika La Phodiso: Community Art Counselling & Training Institute. His art therapy and counselling experience extends across group work and individuals of all age groups. He has shared his insights at various conferences, blending artistic talent with a dedication to therapeutic practices and academic excellence. Book Chapters Naran, K. (2021). Connecting over art: Utalising art collections in programmes to promote connection, engagement and learning. In: Nettleton, A.C.E. Charlton, J. Rankin-Smith, F. Cohen, L. Leyde, L & Mokgojwa, K (Eds), Seen, Heard and Valued: WAM Celebrates 40 Years of the Standard Bank African Art Collection (pp: 254-259), Wits Art Museum. Journal Articles Naran, K. (2023). Using art therapy to address the protective false self when working with queer identity. South African Journal of Arts Therapies , 1(1), 89 -110. https://doi.org/10.36615/sajat.v1i1.2576