The HIVE: a co-created art installation about health

Abstract

Objectives: We consider how artists explore complex health issues in a large-scale, collaborative art installation.

Study design: This article describes - The HIVE - an arts-based knowledge translation (ABKT) initiative through which artists collaborated with researchers, service providers, health consumers, and carers affiliated with a major translational health research centre in Australia.

Methods: We present a case study that draws on artist statements and visual documentation to evoke the different facets of the initiative.

Results: The eight projects encompassed by The HIVE were diverse. Artistic media included textiles, sculpture, poetry and photography. Health issues ranged from palliative care to child healthcare.

Conclusions: The HIVE was not simply an installation but a nucleus that fostered collaboration through the design and development of creative artworks. In emphasising empathy and non-verbal communication, The HIVE at once translated and expanded health(care) research and practice.

Keywords: Art installation; Health(care); Interdisciplinary research; Knowledge translation.