The Pre-Research Sketchbook: A Tool to Guide Future Inquiry

Abstract

Making images is an essential part of how art therapists learn about clients and explore new ideas. This same process can inform how art therapy researchers first engage with areas of interest for studies. A pre-research sketchbook or journal can guide the inquiry as a step prior to the literature review. This article reviews a creative exploration at the British Museum as a means to better understand sensory loss for future study design. The art therapist created a structured sketchbook to guide viewing and responding to prints about vision and hearing in human life. The process revealed interrelations among all the senses, the importance of seeing the whole person, and issues of power and control in the care environment.

Keywords:

• Art-based inquiry
• fine art
• older adults
• sensory loss

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Erin Elizabeth Partridge

Erin Elizabeth Partridge, PhD, ATR-BC, is an Experiential Researcher-In-Residence at Elder Care Alliance, Alameda, CA.