Using arts-based research to help visualize community intervention in international aid. (September 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Huss, Ephrat; Kaufman, Roni; Avgar, Amos; Shouker, Eytan
• Other Names: Vickers Tom guest-editor.
• Is Part Of: International social work. Volume 58:Number 5(2015:Sep.)
• Page Start: 673
• Page End: 688
• Publication Date: 2015-09
• Subjects: Arts-based research -- arts in social work -- international aid -- participatory research -- policy planning; Social service -- Periodicals; Social problems -- Periodicals; Globalization -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Community development -- Periodicals; 361
• DOI: 10.1177/0020872815592686
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0020-8728

Abstract

This article discusses the advantages of arts-based research specifically for high-context, culturally diverse, power-infused, and chaotic or diffuse research settings as often found in international aid. It points to the ability of arts to concretize abstract concepts and to situate them within specific socio-cultural locations, enabling powerless groups to self-define and to adjust resilience-enhancing interventions to their own perceptions. The arts-based method as an indirect form of communication is shown to be effective in changing stands of power holders and experts, enabling a dialogue that creates culturally sustainable aid. The model used in this article is demonstrated and discussed.