Arts-based Research Methods in Social Science Inquiry
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Arts-Based Research (ABR) methods have emerged as innovative and interdisciplinary approaches within social science inquiry, enabling researchers to explore complex human experiences through creative and expressive forms. Unlike traditional research methods that primarily rely on numerical data or textual analysis, arts-based methodologies incorporate artistic practices such as visual arts, storytelling, poetry, performance, music, and digital media to generate, interpret, and communicate knowledge. These approaches provide a deeper understanding of social phenomena by capturing emotions, lived experiences, cultural identities, and community perspectives that are often difficult to represent through conventional methods. The growing interest in ABR reflects a shift toward more participatory, reflective, and inclusive research practices. Arts-based methods allow researchers and participants to co-create knowledge, fostering engagement, empathy, and reflexivity in the research process. Such methods are particularly valuable in fields such as education, sociology, anthropology, psychology, and cultural studies, where subjective experiences and social contexts play a critical role. Furthermore, ABR enhances the accessibility of research findings by presenting them through artistic formats that resonate with broader audiences, including policymakers, communities, and practitioners. Despite its advantages, arts-based research also presents methodological challenges related to rigor, interpretation, and evaluation. Therefore, establishing clear frameworks for integrating artistic processes with systematic research design is essential to ensure credibility and scholarly contribution. This paper explores the conceptual foundations, methodological approaches, and practical applications of arts-based research methods in social science inquiry. It also highlights the potential of ABR to expand traditional research paradigms by bridging creativity and scientific investigation, ultimately contributing to richer, more holistic understandings of social realities
Subfield: Visual Arts and Performing Arts
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7148882518