The Jay-Canvas Artboard Approach: an innovative arts-based research method

Abstract

Background: There is an increasing need to develop innovative ways of collecting data that empower vulnerable people, such as those who use mental health services.

Aim: To describe a novel, arts-based research method called the Jay-Canvas Artboard Approach (Jay-CAA), which involves a group collectively writing short descriptions on a canvas artboard about their experiences.

Discussion: The authors asked participants in two studies to use coloured pens to write decorative comments on shared canvas artboards. They then analysed this data using thematic analysis.

Conclusion: The Jay-CAA enabled the creation and collection of data in a time-effective way that was unproblematic for recruiting and retaining participants.

Implications for practice: The Jay-CAA method enables research participants to summarise and express their experiences.

Keywords: data collection; focus groups; methodology; narrative; qualitative research; research; research methods.