I have been thinking a lot about mixed methods research, arts based research and the role of the 'artist as investigator'. It'd be really amazing to examine and map the flourishing capacity of our personal worlds and wider worlds, as well as investigating the ways that art (in the context of the artworld) enhances flourishing & helps us to thrive. The positive psychology literature tells us that in order to flourish, people need to experience 'Positive Emotion', 'Engagement', 'Relationships', 'Meaning' & 'Achievement' (Seligman, 2010). I believe that making art facilitates all of these things and supports our wellbeing!!! These 5 positive psychology principles are represented by the acronym (P.E.R.M.A). Wouldn't it be fun to use artmaking as an investigative tool to explore, examine and document the 'P.E.R.M.A Culture' of our communities, finding creative ways to represent & record flourishing and thriving?!
Check out Emotional Cartography where a group of artists & designers have used new artmaking technologies to explore the political, social & cultural implications of visualising intimate biometric data & emotional experiences.
Drop in and have a look at 'Mappiness' - the app being used to map happiness .
Maybe together we could make 'flow maps' or fabricate 'Festivals of Flourishing'.
When you think of art & flourishing what comes to your mind?
This is a great find. We are very into Positive Psychology at our school and this would be a wonderful extension.
ReplyDeleteWhat a shame the app only relates to UK data.
Will take a closer look at the essays too.
Thanks for sharing:)