Tischler, Victoria ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0086-1906, Carone, L and Mistry, J (2016) The gallery as therapeutic venue: exploring visitor perceptions in a contemporary space. Journal of Applied Arts and Health, 7 (1). pp. 37-53.

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Abstract

This prospective qualitative study explored the social and psychological impact of an exhibition at a contemporary art gallery. Three focus groups, including 8 people aged 45-69, were held following a guided tour of an exhibition at Nottingham Contemporary gallery. The exhibition Uneven Geographies featured the works of a variety of international artists focussing upon the politics of globalisation through different media including film, installation and photography. Focus group transcripts were analysed using Braun and Clarke’s 6-phase model of thematic analysis. Three themes were identified: 1) ’It’s almost like a piece of a jigsaw puzzle’, 2) Interpreting the Message and 3) Dissolving Social Barriers. Results indicated that the exhibition helped participants make sense of a variety of experiences, art interpretation was a key educational skill, and attending the gallery promoted social inclusion. These findings build on previous studies that indicate the potential for cultural institutions, such as art galleries and museums, to promote education, health and wellbeing at individual and societal levels.

Item Type:	Article
Identifier:	10.1386/jaah.7.1.37_1
Subjects:	Arts > Gallery and museum Medicine and health > Mental health Psychology
Related URLs:	Publisher
Depositing User:	Victoria Tischler
Date Deposited:	09 Mar 2018 14:41
Last Modified:	06 Feb 2024 15:56
URI:	https://repository.uwl.ac.uk/id/eprint/4713

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