Artistic Inquiry in Dance/Movement Therapy: Creative Research Alternatives

This book offers a compelling research alternative for dance/movement (and other creative arts) therapists who recognize how valuable artistic ways of knowing are to the theory and practice of their profession. It encourages participation in a mode of inquiry that invites fully authentic engagement, inspires excitement about discovery, and builds confidence in abilities to contribute to the professional body of research literature. Artistic inquiry is defined as research that: (1) uses artistic methods of gathering, analyzing, and/or presenting data; (2) engages in and acknowledges a creative process; and (3) is motivated and determined by the aesthetic values of the researcher(s). These three defining characteristics are theoretically and practically examined in depth and accompanied by examples of artistic inquiry relevant to dance/movement therapy. Interdisciplinary support for the validity of artistic inquiry is drawn from a rich field of resources, including philosophy, social sciences, education, and the arts. Still/Here, a multimedia dance work by Bill T. Jones, is presented as a work of art that can be viewed as artistic inquiry. Jones’ use of dance as the primary expressive medium, drawing from the verbal and nonverbal narratives of people living with terminal illnesses, exemplifies the potential that artistic inquiry has for dance/movement therapy. The book concludes with recommendations for the promotion and evaluation of artistic inquiry projects. Throughout, it upholds a vision of research as a vital, satisfying, and essential part of a dance/movement therapist’s career.