Redemption or Manipulation? Revisiting the Art of a Serial Killer—A Dialogue

Abstract

This article revisits an ongoing dialogue between the co-authors, examining their divergent perspectives on whether the art of serial killers was used to perpetuate their psychopathic cycles after their murderous sprees were interrupted, or whether the art—particularly a piece done by one serial killer, Glen Rogers–reflects remorse and redemption. The two art therapists draw from their own clinical and professional experiences to argue their respective outlooks. After explaining what art therapy is, re-examining the concept of murderabilia, and underscoring psychopathy, this article provides an in-depth evaluation of two art pieces done by the serial killer through both of their viewpoints. Ultimately, while neither author completely changed their overall conclusions, elements from both sides of the argument were found relevant. Ultimately, this article emphasized the chaotic and messy connections between art and violence, yet through new perspectives explored on the complexities and motivations within the mayhem, mutual understandings emerged.