Public spaces as transformative creative wellness spaces: an evaluation of Musical Intervention

ABSTRACT

Musical Intervention (MI) is a public space that supports individuals who seek opportunities for creativity and connection with the broader community. This study sought to evaluate and understand MI through surveys, qualitative interviews, and ethnographic observations. Data revealed that participants 1) described the space as a socially integrated community and a nonclinical therapeutic and sober environment; and 2) described their personal experience using MI. Public spaces like MI can provide integrative and transformative sober spaces for marginalized individuals to spend time outside of clinical settings as well as therapeutic opportunities through creative expression, supplementing the efforts of service providers.

KEYWORDS:

• Music
• identity
• community
• therapeutic landscape
• social integration

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

Funding was provided by the State of Connecticut, Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services through the Connecticut Mental Health Center, a DMHAS facility, but this publication does not express the view of the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services or the State of Connecticut. The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors.