Transformation from Marginalization to Society’s Agent: A Narrative Inquiry on Experiences of Art Activity among People with Mental Illness

ABSTRACT

Using in-depth interviews, this study identified the experiences of five people with mental illness who participated in art activities. Findings indicated that the life journey that led to the participants’ art activities and the impact of these activities in their lives were different and unique. The voices of the individuals with mental illness who participated in this study provided deeper understanding of how art activities have changed their lives. In addition, it was confirmed that art activities in which people with mental illness participate, bring positive inner changes and have the potential to improve their interpersonal relationships and social interactions.

Acknowledgments

We sincerely thank Antica’s Director Myung-jin Shim and all the members for allowing us to closely observe the art experiences of people with mental illness.

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflict of interest.

Funding

This research received no external funding.

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.