Visual Arts as a Tool for Phenomenology

Abstract

In this article I explain the process and benefits of using visual arts as a tool within a transcendental phenomenological study. I present and discuss drawings created and described by four participants over the course of twelve interviews. Findings suggest the utility of visual arts methods within the phenomenological toolset to encourage participant voice through easing communication and facilitating understanding.

Keywords

• arts-based research
• arts-informed research
• participant voice
• visual arts
• drawing
• art elicitation techniques
• transcendental phenomenology
• graduate student mother
• DocMama
• mothers and art
• gender