Scientific Meeting: Symbolic Representation Revisited – Coleen Gold – January 26th, 2019

Photo credit: Anne Gaze “Seasonal Progression” Acrylic paint on board 2018

Scientific Meeting January 26th, 2019   | Symbolic Representation Revisited – Coleen Gold, MA, ATR, FIPA  

The related topics of symbol formation, representation, unconscious communication, transformation and aesthetic experience are intrinsically undefinable in any absolute, coherent way. Understandably, attempts to address these concepts in the psychoanalytic literature range from the concrete to the mystical. And yet, it can be argued that, despite their elusiveness, psychoanalytic work is based on these processes.

With the kind permission of Elias da Rocha Barros, we will have an opportunity to revisit his work on these topics as presented at the CPS Annual Congress in Montreal this past year in his paper entitled, “Symbol Formation and Transformation in Theory and in Practice”. Coleen Gold will re-present the conference proceedings by reading Dr Barros’ paper and her response entitled, “In the Wilderness.” She will provide additional thoughts on the metapsychology of unconscious process and encourage the exchange of ideas and discussion on the topic.

Both papers will be distributed in advance to registrants so that those who wish to can read ahead or along.

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Coleen Gold, MA, BCATR, FIPA, is a training analyst in private practice in Vancouver with a background in fine art and an interest in aesthetics and unconscious process.

Learning Objectives: At the end of this program/session/event participants will be able to:

1. To review Dr. Elias da Rocha Barros’ ideas about symbol formation and transformation and develop an understanding of their significance in psychoanalytic theory.
2. To review Dr. Elias da Rocha Barros’ ideas about symbol formation and transformation and develop an understanding of their applications in practice using his case example.
3. To develop a general understanding of how the concepts of symbol formation, representation, unconscious communication, transformation and aesthetic experience might be related and to appreciate their theoretical implications for working with unconscious processes in psychoanalytic practice.

 

SCIENTIFIC PROGRAM COMMITTEE: Karin Holland Biggs, Ph.D., FIPA. (Chair),  Elizabeth Wallace, MD, FIPA.
For further information please contact Program Chair: Karin Holland Biggs – khbiggs@telus.net