Abstract
This heuristic study investigated the effects of ceramic shadow box construction on a high school
art teacher's psychological stress levels during the Covid-19 pandemic. Through analysis of
symbols and essential phrases from a written narrative for each shadowbox created, the
researcher accessed her shadow side. This assisted the researcher in clarifying her coping
strategies to reduce teacher stress. Overarching themes included: self (inner and outer),
interference (obstacles and guidance), and rebirth symbols found in the artwork. The shadow box
intervention yielded positive results for the researcher as her tension and stress reduced, while
self-efficacy and self-care increased.
