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180 Art Research Topics To Wake Your Inner Creator Up

We know, finding great art research topics can be a pretty difficult thing to do nowadays. Your classmates are all scouring the Internet in search of easy – but interesting – topics. The last thing you want is to pick a topic that has already been chosen. You want to be original. You want your professor to notice the effort you’ve put into finding the perfect topic. This is why you should take a look at our list of art research topics. All of them are original and interesting. And, best of all, the list is updated and new topics are added periodically.

Writing a Proper Art Research Paper

Writing a research paper on a topic in painting, sculpture, literature, architecture, cinema, music, or theater can be tricky if you don’t have much experience. To come to your aid, we have included a short list of tips that should help you write the best possible art research paper as quickly as possible:

Obviously, you need to find an engaging topic for your paper Spend some time on crafting the thesis statement (it’s very important) Only use information from authoritative sources that you can check Make sure all citations and references are properly formatted It pays to start your writing project with an outline Stay organized and follow the outline until you finish the paper Don’t forget to edit your work and then proofread it thoroughly Finally, don’t forget that you can get professional academic writing help, if necessary

In this blog post, we will help you with a list of 180 original art research topics for your next paper. The topics, organized in 20 categories, can be found below and are 100% free. Furthermore, if you have more important things to do, rather than going through that long and boring process, you can pay someone to write a paper and feel free to spend your time as you wish.

Brand New Art Topics for Research Papers

Below, you can find our brand new art topics for research papers. All of these topics have been recently added and we think that all of them should work great in 2023:

Compare 2 major themes of art
Discuss the adversity theme in art
Is digital 3D motion graphic design an art?
Discuss artistic styles in modern art
An in-depth look at digital art
Social media in 2023 art
Talk about the popularity of art fairs
Should you become an art historian?
Peculiarities of abstract art of the 21st century
Talk about Cubism influences in art
What is mixed media art?

Artist Research Paper Ideas

Would you like to talk about artists? No problem, we’ve got an entire list of artist research paper ideas for you right here. Choose the best one and start writing in minutes:

The life and work of Jean-Michel Basquiat
The importance of Peter Doig’s work
Modern paintings by Christopher Wool
Influences in Rudolf Stingel’s art
An in-depth look at Salvador Dali’s work
The neo-Pop movement (Yoshitomo Nara)
Richard Prince’s use of mass-media images in art
The instability of life in Zeng Fanzhi’s paintings
The life and work of Frida Kahlo
Andy Warhol’s rise in popularity
Discuss the themes in Vincent van Gogh’s work
The importance of Jackson Pollock for modern art

Art History Research Paper Topics

If you want to talk about art history, you will be thrilled to learn that we are offering a list of art history research paper topics for free. Check out the latest version of the topics list:

Imagery and symbolism in Carlo Crivelli’s work
Talk about evolution and devolution in Willem de Kooning’s work
An in-depth look at Chinese art
The 3 most important architecture themes
Talk about the portrayal of war in contemporary art
The most important literary works of the 20th century
European art during Medieval times
The importance of prehistoric art in Mesopotamia

Art Topics to Write About in High School

Are you looking for some art topics to write about in high school? Don’t worry about it; we’ve got your back. We have a whole list of topics dedicated to high school students right here:

Talk about the use of symbols in Egyptian art
Discuss Mayan architecture
An in-depth look at Chinese ancient paintings
Light in Claude Monet’s work
Talk about the peculiarities of Romanticism
Discuss the Surrealism movement
The importance of the Sistine Chapel paintings
A closer look at the Harlem Renaissance

Most Interesting Art Topics

We know you want to write a paper on something interesting. After all, you probably want to impress your professor, don’t you? Here are our most interesting art topics:

Discuss peculiarities of Iranian cinema movies
Talk about Hindi architecture
Best Chinese novels ever written
Artistic similarities between the US and Canada
Talk about a famous painter in the United Kingdom
The ascendance motif in Raphael’s work
Talk about feminism in contemporary art
Japanese motifs in Claude Monet’s paintings

Advanced Art Topics

We are most certain that your professor will appreciate the effort if you choose to write your paper on a more complex topic. Here are some advanced art topics you could try:

The emergence of urban street art
Cubism in Pablo Picasso paintings
The life and works of Louise Bourgeois
Talk about the influence of the paranormal on art
An in-depth look at Aztec religious art
Talk about a primeval music instrument of your choice
Talk about sculpture in Ancient Rome
Discuss the use of art for propaganda means

Fun Art Topic Ideas

Who said writing a research paper about art can’t be fun? It all depends on the topic you choose. To help you out, we have compiled a list of fun art topic ideas. Check it out below:

Depictions of extraterrestrials in art
Using art during the war
3 most creative uses of paintings
Talk about the emergence of NFT art
Interesting traits of the Bauhaus movement
Sculptures that make you laugh
Interesting depictions of the human anatomy
The most famous graffiti in the United States

Art Topics Good for College Students

Of course we have many art topics that are good for college students. Our experts have recently finished updating the list of ideas, so go ahead and choose the one you like the most:

Analyze the Surrealism period
Postmodernism in 2023 art
The life and work of Auguste Renoir
Talk about French caricatures
The benefits of art therapy
Hitler and his contribution to arts
War dances in the Maori society

Controversial Art Topics to Write About

M any students find writing a research paper challenging. There are many controversial topics in art that you can talk about in a research paper. Take a look at some of the most controversial art topics to write about and take your pick:

Discuss The Last Judgement by Michelangelo
The controversies surrounding Marcel Duchamp
Graffiti: vandalism or art?
Why is art so controversial?
What makes a drawing a piece of art?
Architecture: art or utility?

Easy Topics for Art Papers

If you want to spend as little time as possible writing the research paper, you need an easier topic. Fortunately for you, our experts have compiled a list of easy topics for art papers right here:

Types of Chinese jewelry
Analyze art in South Korea
The first recorded music instrument
Discuss a novel of your choice
Talk about Venetian carnival masks
The life and works of Giuseppe Verdi
Compare and contrast 3 war dances
American Indian art over the years
An in-depth look at totem masks
Art in sub-Saharan Africa
Talk about art in North Korea

Modern/Contemporary Art History Topics

Yes, we really do have a list of the best modern/contemporary art history topics. As usual, you can choose any of our topics and even reword it without giving us any credit. Take your pick:

Talk about 5 artistic styles in modern art
Talk about activism and art
Discuss the role of political cartoons
The role of digital art in 2023
Is printmaking really an art?
Discuss the theme of identity politics
Political critique through the use of art
Most interesting works of contemporary art

Ancient Art Topics

Do you want to talk about ancient art? It’s not a simple subject, but we’re certain you will manage just fine. Check out our latest list of ancient art topics and select the one you like the most:

Analyze the El Castillo Cave Paintings
Ancient art in India
An in-depth look at the Diepkloof Eggshell Engravings
Ancient art in Persia
Why is ancient art so important?
Ancient art in China
What makes ancient art unique?

Ideas for an Art Research Project

Did your teacher ask you to come up with an idea for an art research project? Don’t worry about it too much because we have plenty of ideas for an art research project right here:

Research 3 Kpop artists and their work
Uncover signs of prehistoric art in your area
Make a rain painting on your own
Design a Zen garden in your backyard
Make a 3D sculpture on your computer
Make a wall mural for your school
Experiment with pin art
Experiment with sand art

Fine Arts Research Paper Topics

If you would prefer to write about the fine arts, you have definitely arrived at the right place. We have a long list of interesting fine arts research paper topics below:

Is drawing a form of art?
An in-depth analysis of the Mona Lisa
The Girls with a Pearl Earring painting
An in-depth analysis of Venus of Willendorf
A closer look at the Terracotta Army
Discuss a piece of abstract architecture
A closer look at the Burj Khalifa architecture
Discuss Ode to a Nightingale by John Keats

Renaissance Art Topics

Did you know that our Renaissance art topics have been used by more than 500 students to date? This is a clear indication that our ideas are some of the best on the Web:

Talk about the Linear perspective in Renaissance art
Discuss the altarpieces found in Renaissance art
An in-depth look at anatomy in Renaissance art
Discuss the Fresco cycles
Talk about the peculiarities of the landscape
Influences of Realism in Renaissance art
Analyze the use of light in Renaissance art
Discuss the humanism theme
Talk about the individualism theme in Renaissance art

The Best Baroque Art Topics

We can assure you that you teacher will greatly appreciate it if you choose one of these Baroque topics. Remember, this is the place where you can find the best Baroque art topics:

Discuss the Grandeur theme in Baroque art
An in-depth look at the sensuous richness theme
Talk about the importance of religious paintings
Talk about the emotional exuberance theme
Allegories in Baroque art
The life and works of Annibale Carracci
The life and works of Nicolas Poussin

Art Debate Topics

Are you planning an art debate? If you are, you most definitely need some great art debate topics to choose from. Talk to your team and propose them any of these awesome ideas:

Do artists need talent to sculpt?
The best painter in the world today
Can graffiti be considered a form of art?
The best sculpture ever made
Can we consider dance a form of art?
The best painting ever made
Should we study arts in school?
The best literary work ever written
Why is Banksy’s work so controversial?
The best singer of all time
How can photographs be considered works of art?

Artist Biography Topics

Our experts have put together a list of the most intriguing artist biography topics for you. You should be able to find more than enough information about each artist on the Internet:

Talk about the life of Michael Jackson
Discuss the works of Leonardo da Vinci
Discuss the importance of Elvis Presley’s work
The life and works of Rembrandt
The importance of Ernest Hemingway’s masterpieces
The importance of Michelangelo’s paintings
Talk about the life of Vincent van Gogh
Auguste Rodin’s sculptures
The life and works of Donatello
The life and works of Leo Tolstoy
Discuss Jane Austen’s literary works

Art Therapy Topics

Choosing one of our captivating art therapy topics will definitely get your research paper noticed. This is a field that has been growing in popularity for years. Check out our latest ideas:

The importance of photography in art therapy
Reducing pain through art therapy
Art therapy for PTST patients
Art therapy against the stress of the modern world
Improving the quality of life through art therapy
Positive health effects of finger painting
The effects of art therapy on 3 mental health disorders
The effects of art therapy on autism
Art therapy and psychotherapy
The job of an art therapist
Benefits of art therapy for mental health

Art Epochs Paper Topics

If you want to write your paper on one of the many art epochs, you could give our art epochs paper topics a try. You should find plenty of great ideas in the list below:

The legacy of the Romanesque period
The importance of the Romanticism movement
Talk about the Mannerism movement
Discuss The New Objectivity movement
Pop-art in the 21st century
An in-depth look at abstract impressionism
The importance of the Gothic Era
Talk about the Classicist movement
Peculiarities of Cubism art
What is Futurism in art?
Discuss the great artists of the Baroque era
Interesting facts about the Rococo period
The Art Nouveau era

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333 Art Research Paper Topics & Ideas

18 January 2024

last updated

Art research paper topics cover a fascinating field, where numerous themes range from the study of specific artistic movements, periods, and styles to investigations into the socio-political context of art, including the use of new technologies in contemporary artistic practices. Various topics may explore the complexities of abstract expressionism, the intricacies of Renaissance art, or the cultural implications of street art. People may delve into the controversial world of art forgery, the influence of digital media on traditional art, or the role of women in the art world. Art from non-Western traditions, such as African or Asian art, offers many research possibilities. Moreover, cross-disciplinary subjects, like psychology of art, art therapy, or art in education, hold a valid potential. With such a broad study spectrum, art research paper topics provide a rich canvas for exploration, enabling scholars to gain a deeper understanding of human expression across cultures and throughout history.

Simple Art Research Paper Topics

Understanding Pointillism and Its Influence
Modernist Art: An Overview
Impressionism: Capturing Light and Moment
The Power of Portraiture in Art
A Glimpse Into the World of Sculpture
Unraveling the Intricacies of Calligraphy
Street Art: A Modern Phenomenon
Pop Art: Its Definition and Key Figures
Exploring the Art of Collage
Cubism: Breaking Down Traditional Forms
Oil Painting Techniques Throughout History
Watercolor: An Art Form Through the Ages
Frescoes: A Brief History and Technique
Art Nouveau: Characteristics and Key Artists
Expressionism: An Emotional Art Form
Exploration of Abstract Art Concepts
Art of Caricature: Humor in Visual Form
Artistic Influence of Surrealism
Graffiti: Street Art or Vandalism?

Interesting Art Research Paper Topics

Minimalism: The Power of Simplicity in Art
Fashion Illustration: A Creative Dialogue
Animation: Art in Motion
Exploring the Styles of Japanese Manga Art
Artificial Intelligence in the World of Art Creation
Film: Visual Storytelling as an Art
Analyzing the Use of Metaphors in Visual Art
Unraveling the Mysteries of Symbolism in Art
Digital Art: The Impact of Technology on Creativity
Psychedelic Art: A Window Into the Subconscious Mind
Mural Art and Community Expression
Emotional Response Triggered by Abstract Expressionism
Cultural Differences Reflected in Indigenous Art
Art Therapy: Healing Through Creation
Video Game Design: Art, Aesthetics, and Interaction
Body Art and Tattoos: A Cultural Perspective
Exploration of Artistic Activism
Art Market: Valuing Creativity and Aesthetics
Comparison of Eastern and Western Art Styles

Modern Art Research Topics

Decoding Cubism: Understanding Picasso and Braque
Surrealism: An Investigation Into the World of Dreams
Expressionism: Manifestation of Emotions in Modern Art
Analyzing Futurism: Speed, Technology and the Modern World
Exploring Dadaism: A Reaction to World War I
Conceptual Art: Ideas Over Aesthetics
Postmodern Art: Challenging Modernist Authority
Cybernetic Art: Intersection of Art and Technology
Street Art: An Unconventional Modern Canvas
Visual Culture and Gender in Modern Art
Digital Media’s Influence on Contemporary Art Practices
Art Installations: An Environment-Based Interpretation of Modern Art
Transformative Aspects of Performance Art
Appropriation in the Postmodern Art
Bauhaus Movement: Revolutionizing Art and Design
Abstract Expressionism: Freedom in Large-Scale Canvas
Study of Neo-Dada and Its Reflection on Society
Hyperrealism: The Imitation Game in Modern Art
Understanding the Pop Art Movement
Exploration of Minimalism: Art in Reduction

Art Research Topics on Ancient Civilizations

Egyptian Art: Symbolism and the Afterlife
Influence of Art on the Mayan Civilization
Decoding Symbols in Aztec Art
Analysis of Frescoes in Ancient Crete
Sculptural Art of the Ancient Greeks
Artistic Representation in Roman Architecture
Aesthetic Principles of Persian Art
Art in the Indus Valley Civilization
Carving Traditions in Ancient Polynesia
Unraveling the Art of the Ancient Incas
Exploring the Artistic Styles of Ancient Mesopotamia
Bronze Age Art in Scandinavia
Hellenistic Influence on Roman Art
Visual Narratives in Chinese Tomb Art
Art and Hieroglyphics in Ancient Egypt
Religious Influence on Byzantine Mosaics
Depiction of Gods in Ancient Hindu Art
Iconography in Ancient Celtic Art
Minoan Culture: Art and Archaeology

Artist Biography Research Topics

Vincent Van Gogh: A Life in Art
Artistic Vision of Leonardo da Vinci
Pablo Picasso: Cubism and Beyond
Exploration of Frida Kahlo’s Works
Salvador Dali: Surrealism Personified
Career Analysis of Rembrandt van Rijn
Personal Experiences in Georgia O’Keeffe’s Art
M.C. Escher: Master of Impossible Spaces
Depictions of Reality in Caravaggio’s Works
Life and Art of Claude Monet
Henri Matisse: The Joy of Fauvism
Artistic Innovations of Wassily Kandinsky
El Greco: Fusion of Byzantine and Western Art
Unraveling the Mysteries of Bosch’s Paintings
Paul Gauguin: From Paris to Tahiti
Exploring the Abstract Universe of Jackson Pollock
Journey through the Impressionism of Renoir
Analysis of Edward Hopper’s American Realism
Michelangelo’s Contribution to the Renaissance Art
The Life and Art of Auguste Rodin

Art Research Topics in Different Epochs

Baroque Art: Drama and Grandeur
Defining Characteristics of Romanticism in Art
Gothic Art: From Architecture to Illuminated Manuscripts
Byzantine Art and Its Cultural Significance
Transition Into Renaissance: A Shift in Artistic Style
Exploring Mannerism: Between Renaissance and Baroque
Art Deco: Elegance and Technological Progress
Impressionism: More than Light and Momentary Impressions
Abstract Expressionism: Freedom of Expression in Art
Fauvism: Bold Colors and Simplified Designs
Cubism: Changing Perspectives in Art
Surrealism: Unleashing the Power of the Unconscious
Art Nouveau: Nature in the Urban Environment
Pop Art: The Intersection of Art and Popular Culture
Neoclassicism: Rebirth of Ancient Traditions
Dada: An Art Movement of Protest
Expressionism: Emotions Over Realistic Representation
Futurism: Embracing the Energy of the Future
Post-Impressionism: Beyond the Limitations
Art of the Middle Ages: A Spiritual Journey

Compelling Renaissance Art Research Topics

Da Vinci’s Innovations in Art and Science
Botticelli and the Visual Interpretation of Mythology
Michelangelo’s Sculptures: Unraveling the Human Form
Portrayal of Women in Renaissance Art
Patronage System and Its Influence on Renaissance Art
Influence of Humanism on Renaissance Art
Differences in Northern and Italian Renaissance Art
Iconography in the Work of Hieronymus Bosch
Religious Themes in Renaissance Art
Exploring Perspective in the Paintings of Masaccio
Contrasting the Early and High Renaissance
Titian’s Contribution to Venetian Renaissance Art
Anatomy in Art: Lessons from Leonardo da Vinci
Understanding Raphael’s Use of Composition
Interpreting Allegory in Renaissance Art
The Architecture of the Renaissance: Brunelleschi’s Innovations
Renaissance Artistic Techniques: Chiaroscuro and Sfumato
El Greco’s Unique Approach in the Late Renaissance
Petrarch’s Influence on Renaissance Artists

Fascinating Photography in Art Research Topics

Pictorialism: Bridging Painting and Photography
Candid Street Photography: Reflections of Urban Life
Ansel Adams and the Majesty of Nature
History of Photojournalism: Truth in Images
Understanding Photomontage: From Dada to Today
Andy Warhol’s Use of Photography in Art
Diane Arbus: Confronting Norms Through Portraiture
War Photography: Documenting Humanity’s Dark Side
Evolution of Fashion Photography
Cinematic Aesthetics in Contemporary Photography
Study of Abstract Photography
Cindy Sherman and the Art of Self-Portraiture
HDR Photography: Artistic Merits and Criticisms
Photography’s Role in Constructing Identity
Exploring Ethereal Quality in Surrealist Photography
Vivian Maier: The Mystery of the Nanny Photographer
Exploring the Ethnographic Photography of Edward Curtis
Magnum Photos: Power of Collective Photography
Color Theory in Photography

Art Research Topics in Architecture

Gothic Architecture: Symbolism and Interpretation
Modernism in Architectural Design: Case Studies
Sustainable Architecture: Ecological Design Principles
Neoclassical Structures: Harmony and Order
Frank Lloyd Wright and the Concept of Organic Architecture
Brutalist Architecture: Power and Materiality
Architectural Marvels of Ancient Rome
Islamic Architecture: Geometric Patterns and Spiritual Symbolism
Deconstructivism: Challenging Traditional Architecture
Feng Shui Principles in Eastern Architecture
Revival Architectural Styles: Romanticism and Identity
Digital Architecture: Advances and Implications
Critical Regionalism: Adapting Modernism to Local Contexts
Bauhaus Movement: Intersection of Art, Craft, and Technology
Architectural Acoustics: Sound Design in Concert Halls
Sacred Spaces: Religious Influence on Architecture
Adaptive Reuse in Architecture: Redefining Existing Structures
Biomimicry in Architecture: Inspiration From Nature
Futurist Architecture: Imagining the City of Tomorrow
Art Nouveau Architecture: Organic Forms and Decorative Detailing

Art Research Topics About Theater

Elizabethan Theater: Innovation and Influence
Brechtian Theatre: Alienation Effect and Its Significance
Musical Theatre: Fusion of Art Forms
Greek Tragedy: Power and Catharsis
Commedia Dell’arte: Improvisation and Character Masks
Kabuki Theatre: Cultural Symbolism in Japan
Shakespearean Plays: Intricate Character Analysis
Modernist Theatre: Interpretation and Vision
Noh Theatre: Minimalist Aesthetics and Spirituality
Symbolism in French Theater: Maeterlinck and Claudel
Realism in Ibsen’s Theater: Social Critique
Absurdist Drama: Beckett, Ionesco, and Pinter
Ancient Roman Theater: Performance and Spectacle
Black Theater Movement: Social Change and Expression
Postmodern Performance: Hybridity and Intertextuality
Theater of the Oppressed: Augusto Boal’s Revolutionary Technique
Puppet Theater: Artistry Beyond Actors
Theater Criticism: Methods and Perspectives
Contemporary Immersive Theater: Audience Participation

Art Research Topics for Different Cultures

African Art: Aesthetics and Meaning in Yoruba Sculpture
Japanese Art: Wabi-Sabi and the Beauty of Imperfection
Australian Indigenous Art: Symbols and Dreamtime Stories
Russian Avant-Garde: Transformation of Artistic Language
Middle Eastern Islamic Art: Geometry and Calligraphy
Native American Art: Symbolism and Spiritual Traditions
Cuban Art: Politics and Expression after the Revolution
Chinese Art: Brushwork in Traditional Ink Painting
Mexican Muralism: Rivera, Orozco, and Siqueiros
South Asian Art: The Divine in Hindu Iconography
Greek Art: Harmony and Proportions in Classical Sculpture
Polynesian Art: Tattoos and Cultural Identity
Art of Ancient Egypt: Ritual and the Afterlife
Korean Art: Celadon Ceramics and Buddhist Influence
European Medieval Art: Illuminated Manuscripts
Art of the Inuit: Life and Mythology in Sculpture
Brazilian Graffiti: Street Art as Political Commentary
Art of the Maori: Carving, Weaving, and Tattooing
Byzantine Art: Icons and Mosaics in Christian Worship
Modern Persian Art: Negotiating Tradition and Modernity

Art History Research Paper Topics

Artistic Paradigms in Late Antiquity: A Shift towards Christianity
Baroque Art: Caravaggio’s Naturalism and Dramatic Lighting
Impressionism: Monet’s En Plein Air Technique
Surrealism: Dali’s Dreamscapes and the Subconscious Mind
Postmodernism: Koons and the Commodification of Art
Abstract Expressionism: Pollock’s Action Painting
Cubism: Picasso’s Deconstruction of Form
Renaissance Humanism: Anatomy in Leonardo’s Drawings
Romanticism: Turner’s Sublime Landscapes
Neoclassicism: David’s Use of Greco-Roman Themes
Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood: Rejection of Industrial Age Aesthetics
Art Nouveau: Mucha and the Integration of Art and Life
Fauvism: Matisse’s Bold Use of Color
German Expressionism: Kirchner’s Response to Urbanization
Dadaism: Duchamp’s Readymades and the Challenge to Artistic Convention
Pop Art: Warhol’s Reflections on Consumer Culture
Gothic Architecture: Chartres Cathedral’s Stained Glass
Arts and Crafts Movement: Morris’s Return to Handicrafts
Futurism: Boccioni’s Dynamism and the Machine Age

Art Therapy Research Topics

Art Therapy in Alzheimer’s Disease: A Creative Approach
Artistic Expression as a Coping Mechanism for Trauma Survivors
Psychoanalytic Perspectives on Art Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Art Therapy for Anxiety Disorders
Integrating Mindfulness Techniques in Art Therapy
Art Therapy in Pediatric Oncology: Aiding Expression and Understanding
Clinical Art Therapy and Autism Spectrum Disorder
Art Therapy Interventions for Individuals with Schizophrenia
Artistic Creation as a Medium for Self-Expression in Depression
Group Art Therapy in Substance Abuse Treatment
Phototherapy: Exploring Personal Narratives through Photography
Art Therapy and Neurological Rehabilitation: A Stroke Case Study
Utilizing Art Therapy in Grief Counseling
Art Therapy as a Modality in the Treatment of Eating Disorders
Clinical Assessment through Art Therapy: Indicators and Interpretations
Sand Tray Therapy: A Nonverbal Therapeutic Approach
Expressive Art Therapy in Palliative Care: Enhancing Quality of Life
Biblio-Art Therapy: Integrating Literature in Therapeutic Practice
Virtual Reality and Art Therapy: Exploring New Horizons
Holistic Healing: Integrating Yoga and Art Therapy

Pop Art Research Topics

Andy Warhol: King of Pop Art
Consumerism in Pop Art: A Critical Analysis
Exploring Roy Lichtenstein’s Comic Strip Aesthetics
Pop Art and Its Reflection on Post-War Culture
Influence of Media and Advertising on Pop Art
Cultural Shifts Reflected in 1960s Pop Art
Pop Art and Its Interpretation of Femininity: Analysis of Works
Exploring Pop Art’s Impact on Fashion
British Pop Art: Distinct Features and Notable Artists
From Collage to Canvas: Techniques of Pop Art
How Pop Art Challenged Traditional Fine Art Values
Japanese Pop Art: Influence of Manga and Anime
Pop Art and Political Commentary: Works of Richard Hamilton
The Use of Irony and Parody in Pop Art
Crossover between Pop Art and Minimalism
Pop Art’s Influence on Music: Album Cover Designs
A Closer Look at Keith Haring’s Subway Drawings
Ed Ruscha and Pop Art Typography
Understanding Claes Oldenburg’s Soft Sculptures in Pop Art
Pop Art’s Impact on Modern and Contemporary Art

Visual Art Research Topics

Decoding Symbols in Medieval Visual Art
Concepts of Beauty in Renaissance Visual Art
Impressionism: Capturing the Moment in Visual Art
Street Art: Vandalism or Visual Culture?
Understanding Abstract Expressionism in Visual Art
Color Theory in Visual Art: A Comprehensive Study
Art Nouveau and its Influence on Visual Art
Depictions of War in Visual Art
Examining Surrealism in Visual Art
Cubism: Changing Perspectives in Visual Art
Visual Art in Advertising: An Analysis
Contemporary Visual Art: Trends and Techniques
Sculpture: 3D Perspectives in Visual Art
Depictions of Mythology in Visual Art
Bauhaus Movement and its Influence on Visual Art
Visual Art as a Tool for Social Commentary
Futurism: Anticipating the Future in Visual Art
Exploring Romanticism in Visual Art
Religious Iconography in Byzantine Visual Art

Classical Greek Art Research Topics

Classical Greek Sculpture: Aesthetic Analysis
Iconography in Classical Greek Vase Painting
Architectural Innovations of Classical Greek Temples
Classical Greek Art in the Context of Democracy
Mythology Depictions in Classical Greek Art
Mosaics and Frescoes: Detailed Examination of Classical Greek Mediums
Development of Human Figure Representation in Classical Greek Art
Classical Greek Theatre: An Artistic Perspective
Artistic Techniques Used in Classical Greek Coin Design
Classical Greek Art: An Inquiry Into Cultural Exchange
Metopes and Friezes: Sculptural Elements of Classical Greek Architecture
Gender Portrayal in Classical Greek Art
Classical Greek Art: Exploring Burial Customs
Artistic Conventions of Classical Greek Pottery
Aesthetic Values in Classical Greek Art: Detailed Analysis
Exploration of Classical Greek Military Art
Deciphering Messages in Classical Greek Art
Classical Greek Art: Analyzing Patterns and Motifs
Reflection of Philosophy in Classical Greek Art
Pediment Sculpture in Classical Greek Architecture

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Researching Artworks and Artists
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Researching the Provenance of a Work of Art

The Ryerson & Burnham Libraries collection contains a wide variety of resources that can be used to locate information on artists and their works. Our open shelf collection in the reading room contains reference sources, such as dictionaries, directories, encyclopedias, and indexes. We have strong collections of artist files, auction catalogs, books, exhibition catalogs, journals, and newspapers in the library collection, and the Ryerson and Burnham Archives collections also contain papers for individual artists and arts organizations, as well as a collection of artists’ oral histories.

This research guide provides recommendations for research sources and strategies to locate information on both prominent and obscure artists and their works. Prior to beginning your research, we recommend that you compile as much information about the artist or artwork of interest to you as possible. Do you know the artist’s name, the artwork’s title, the approximate dates the artist worked or the piece was created, or the geographic area where the artist lived or the object was created? If you are working on an artwork in your collection, have you examined it to see whether it contains any signatures or marks, labels, or annotations (you may wish to remove the frame to fully examine the object)? Recording this information and bringing an outline of keywords or research objectives as well as clear, closeup images of any signatures or markings to the library with you will provide you with a strong starting point for your research.

Getting Started

The Ryerson and Burnham Libraries’ catalog will lead you to articles, artist files, books, and exhibition catalogues for an artist. For best results, use the Library Catalog search scope, and enter the artist’s name, last name, first name (example: Monet, Claude). The following resources will also be helpful in learning more about specific artists and their artworks.

Catalogues Raisonnés

Look for a piece in the most comprehensive catalogue of the artist’s known works. Please note these are not available for all artists. The International Foundation for Art Research maintains a free database of published and forthcoming catalogues raisonnés.

In the library catalog, search the Library Catalog scope for: [Artist’s name; Last Name, First Name] – Catalogues raisonnés (example: Hopper, Edward – Catalogues raisonnés).

Artist Files

The Ryerson & Burnham Libraries have over 35,000 artist files, which contain small exhibition catalogs, checklists, clippings, images, and fliers for artists, galleries, museums, and art schools. These are described in the catalog: the location and material type is Pamphlets. See also the New York Public Library’s artists file on microfiche (call number 1990 3).

Biographical Reference Resources

Who’s Who in American Art This subscription resource is also available digitally in the reading room.
Who Was Who in American Art, 1564-1975
Dictionary of Artists (Bénézit) This subscription resource is also available digitally in the reading room.
Allgemeines Kunstler-Lexikon This subscription resource is also available digitally in the reading room.
Contemporary Artists

Ryerson Index

Look for articles on an artist, particularly if the artist was in the Chicago area and was active in the early to mid-20th century. This includes references to the Art Institute of Chicago Scrapbooks .

Full Title : I ndex to Art Periodicals (1962)

Signature Directories

If you do not have the name of the work you are researching, but it has a signature, try resources such as these.

American Artists: Signatures & Monograms, 1800-1989
Marks & Monograms: The Decorative Arts, 1880-1960
The Visual Index of Artists’ Signatures & Monograms
Artists’ Monograms & Indiscernible Signatures: An International Directory, 1800-1991

Reproduction Indices

Track down works that reproduce a painting, such as World Painting Index or Art Reproductions .

Art Dictionaries

Art dictionaries are useful for biographies, introductions to periods of art, and the bibliographies that accompany entries; the Grove Dictionary of Art and Oxford Art Online (this subscription resource is available in the reading room) are good examples. Works such as the Dictionary of Art Terms can also be useful for definitions and explanations of terms and periods of art, as well as illustrations and diagrams for entries.

Articles on Art, Artists, and Related Topics

These subscription resources provide citations and some full-text articles on art, artists, and related topics. Unless otherwise noted, they are available onsite at the Art Institute of Chicago and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago campus. Faculty, students, and staff at the Art Institute of Chicago and School of the Art Institute of Chicago can also access most of these resources from other locations with an ARTIC username and password via the Art, Architecture, and Design Resources Page .

Newspaper Databases

The Libraries subscribe to online regional and national newspaper databases, which can be used to locate biographical or exhibition information.

These resources are accessible in the Ryerson & Burnham Libraries via the Newspapers Resources Page .

Auction Databases

The Libraries subscribe to a number of auction databases, most of which cover auctions from the last 20 years.

These resources are accessible in the Ryerson & Burnham Libraries via the Auction Resources Page.

Researching Artworks in a Museum Collection

Objects currently on display in the Art Institute galleries can usually be found in Collections Online . The record may include an image, information from the wall label, and occasionally an exhibition history and bibliography of titles that mention the artwork. CITI is the museum’s internal collection database, which includes information on all artworks in the Art Institute’s collection. If an item is not on display in the galleries, this may be the best starting point. Please ask at the reference desk for CITI access.

For objects that are on display in other museums and institutions, the subscription ARTstor database, available in the reading room, contains a growing survey of major works of art, as well as specialized image collections.

Search by museum collection, artist, or keyword. ARTstor is available from the Image Databases page .

Catalog of Museum or Department

Consult the catalogs of a museum’s collection or a museum department’s collection. For example: American Arts at the Art Institute of Chicago . You can find these by searching the library catalog for the museum and department name and the term catalogs (for example, Art Institute of Chicago. Department of Textiles — Catalogs).

Beyond the Ryerson & Burnham Libraries

Area Libraries

Check libraries and/or historical societies in the area that the artist was from or was most active for information including newspaper articles and pamphlet files. Try “Find a library near you,” available here: https://www.worldcat.org/libraries .

Chicago Artists’ Archive at Chicago Public Library

This archival collection is available at the Harold Washington Branch of Chicago Public Library (8th floor). Files may contain: resumes, newspaper articles, artists’ books, gallery flyers, videos, press clippings, letters, photographs, some original artwork, and CDs. To find out if a particular artist is included in the collection you can call (312) 747-4300 or consult the list available here: http://www.chipublib.org/fa-chicago-artists-archive/ .

Collections that Have Works by the Artist

Once you discover which museum collections hold pieces by an artist, check with these institutions for information.

Union Catalogs

The Chicago Collections Consortium contains digitized items from the archives and special collections of various Chicago-area institutions, including scrapbooks, photographs, and other printed material for local art-related topics. Access the free online portal here: http://explore.chicagocollections.org .

WorldCat is a catalog of library catalogs worldwide that contains records for libraries’ holdings of books, journals, manuscript collections, newspapers, and digital and audiovisual resources. It is available thorough subscription in the reading room, or in a free version .

Archival Collections

Look for collections of an artist’s papers in library collections around the world search WorldCat or ArchiveGrid .

For American artists, try the Archives of American Art: http://www.aaa.si.edu/ .

Art Information on the Internet

Conduct broad searches for anything on an artist’s name. Using quotation marks around the artist’s name can help limit, as can adding keywords outside the quotation marks.

“Claude Monet”

“Claude Monet” watercolor

“Claude Monet” artist

Searching Google Images, Google Books, and Google Scholar can also be very useful.

The entries in this free online encyclopedia often include bibliographies, references, and links to related entries.

Biographical Information

Consult sites created by museums, libraries, archives, galleries, and others that provide information on artists.

Art in Context

Artcyclopedia

For artists about whom little professional literature is available, try genealogical resources such as census documents, city directories, county histories, and local newspaper collections. Many of these resources are freely accessible online.

ChicagoAncestors

Chronicling America

FamilySearch

Internet Archive

Image Searching

If you have a digital image of the item you are trying to identify, run it through a reverse image search to locate images of similar items on the Internet.

Google Images

Art-Related Services

Appraisal and Conservation

Staff at the Art Institute of Chicago cannot provide authentication or appraisal services, and our conservation staff are not able to accept inquiries on works of art in personal collections. You can locate advice on these topics in our research guide on Appraisal and Conservation Resources for Art .

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187 Unique Art Research Paper Topics Ideas of 2023

Art research paper topics .

Art is a vast and diverse field with many different styles, mediums, and techniques to explore. As such, there are countless potential research paper topics to choose from when studying art.

In this article, we offer a list of relevant and exciting art research paper topics students will find easy to research and fun to write.

What is Art Research Paper?

An art research paper is a written document that presents an in-depth analysis and interpretation of a specific aspect of the visual arts. It typically includes a thesis statement, background information, critical analysis, and a conclusion.

How to Write a Good Art Research Paper?

Start with a clear thesis statement that states the main argument or focus of the paper.
Conduct thorough research using reliable sources, such as scholarly journals, books, and reputable websites.
Analyze and interpret the artwork, artist, movement, or period using specific research examples.
Use appropriate art historical terms and concepts to support your analysis.
Incorporate primary sources, such as the artwork itself and any relevant archival materials, into your analysis.
Use proper citation format and include a list of references at the end of the paper.
Consider the historical and cultural context of the artwork and how it relates to the broader themes and issues of the time period.
Use visual aids, such as images of the artwork, to supplement your analysis and help engage the reader.
Write clearly and concisely, and make sure your argument is well-organized and easy to follow.
Revise and proofread your paper for accuracy and clarity before submitting it.

List of Art Research Paper Topic Ideas of 2023

Top 10 art history research paper topics.

Art history is an interesting topic to explore, and it can be used in a variety of ways.

The role of symbolism in the art of the Renaissance.
The impact of Impressionism on the development of modern art.
The influence of political and social movements on the art of the 20th century.
The role of gender and race in the representation of the human figure in art.
The impact of new technologies on the creation and dissemination of art in the 21st century.
The influence of non-Western art on the development of modern art.
The role of patronage in art production during the Baroque period.
The history of Art Fairs
The role of the philosophy of art in art history
The Art of Ancient Egypt: A Look at the Ancient Egyptian Art Forms.

10 Most Art Research Paper Topics on Ancient Civilization

The role of art in the religious and cultural practices of ancient Egypt.
The influence of Greek art and architecture on the Roman Empire.
The impact of Buddhism on the art and architecture of ancient India.
The role of art in the political and social structures of ancient Mesopotamia.
The influence of Chinese art and culture on the art of the Silk Road.
The impact of the Islamic Golden Age on the development of Islamic art and architecture.
The symbolism and iconography in ancient Indian art
The role of art in the daily life of ancient societies
The evolution of Greek sculpture during the Archaic and Classic periods
Ancient Greek Art: A Study of the Correlation between Art and Religion

10 Best Art Research Paper Topics on Artist Bibliography

An analysis of the self-portraits of Frida Kahlo and their role in her artistic identity.
A study of the influence of Japanese art on the works of Vincent Van Gough.
An examination of the role of surrealism in the works of Salvador Dali.
A critical analysis of the use of symbolism in the works of Gustav Klimt.
An investigation into the impact of Abstract Expressionism on the works of Jackson Pollock.
A study of the influence of African art on the works of Pablo Picasso.
An examination of the role of feminist theory in the works of Judy Chicago.
The impact of Japanese culture on the art of Hokusai and Hiroshige
The use of symbolism in the art of Edvard Munch
A Biography of the Life and Artwork of Joaquin Sorolla

10 Interesting Art Research Topics on Different Epochs

The role of art in the political and social climate of the Renaissance period.
The Age of Enlightenment’s influence on Neoclassicism’s development in art.
The impact of the Industrial Revolution on the art and architecture of the 19th century.
The role of art in the cultural and political landscape of the Baroque period.
The influence of the Gothic era on the art and architecture of the middle ages.
The impact of the cold war on contemporary art
The influence of the French Revolution on the 19th Century art
The role of art in the Gothic period
The Impact of Impressionism on 19th-Century French Art
The Impact of Minimalism on Late 20th-Century Art

10 Most Popular Art Therapy Research Topics

The effectiveness of art therapy in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.
An examination of the impact of trauma-informed art therapy on individuals with PTSD.
A study of the use of art therapy in treating addiction and substance abuse disorders.
An investigation into the effectiveness of art therapy for children with autism.
An examination of the impact of art therapy on reducing symptoms of stress and burnout in healthcare professionals
A study of art therapy’s effectiveness in promoting self-esteem and self-awareness.
The use of art therapy in promoting emotional regulation in individuals with PTSD
Exploring the Benefits of Art Therapy for Trauma Survivors
Examining the Role of Art Therapy in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Research on Art Therapy and Its Effectiveness in Treating Depression

10 Unique High School Art Research Paper Topics

An analysis of the role of symbolism in the art of the Renaissance.
A study of Impressionism’s influence on modern art development.
An examination of the impact of political and social movements on the art of the 20th century.
A critical analysis of the use of colour in the works of Claude Monet.
An investigation into the Industrial Revolution’s impact on the urban landscape’s representation in art.
A study of the influence of African art on the art of the colonial period.
The Influence of Abstract Expressionism on Contemporary Art
The Role of Street Art in Social Change
The Impact of Technology on Art Education
The Impact of Graffiti on Urban Development

Read More: 90+ Best Marketing Research Paper Topics Ideas for You

10 Great Art Research Topics on different Cultures

The role of art in the religious and cultural practices of ancient China.
The influence of African art on the development of contemporary art.
The impact of Islamic art and architecture on the development of Islamic culture.
The role of art in the political and social structures of ancient Greece.
Mesoamerican art’s influence on the Aztec civilisation’s art and architecture.
The representation of women in the art of diaspora communities
The influence of Hinduism on the art of India
The use of art in spiritual practices of indigenous Australian cultures
Ancient Indian Art in the Context of Rituals and Religion
Japanese Ukiyo-e Prints and their Influence on Contemporary Art

10 Brilliant Art Research Topic Ideas for College Students

The impact of social media on contemporary art
The use of found objects in sculpture
Street art and graffiti as a form of rebellion
The representation of marginalized communities in art museums
The role of technology in digital art and animation
The influence of political and historical events on art movements
The influence of feminist movements on contemporary art
The role of graffiti in shaping contemporary urban landscapes
The role of street art in political activism
The Impact of Expressionism on 20th-Century Art

10 Finest Art Research Topic Ideas for University Students

The influence of psychoanalysis on modern art.
The representation of gender and sexuality in contemporary art
The impact of postcolonial theory on art historical narratives.
The role of the artist as a political activist.
The use of new media in contemporary art practices.
The relationship between architecture and site-specific art
The intersection of art and artificial intelligence.
The Impact of Art Education on Social Development
The Significance of Music in Contemporary Art
The Impact of Gender on Art and Artistic Expression

Also Read: Best Economics Research Topics and Ideas for Students in 2023

10 Modern Art Research Paper Topics

The role of abstract expressionism in the development of modern art.
The influence of cubism on 20th-century art.
The impact of surrealism on the art and culture of the 20th century
The significance of pop art in the post-war era
The role of feminist art in the modern art movement
The influence of minimalism on contemporary art
The impact of the LGBTQIA+ rights movement on modern and contemporary art.
The role of street art in shaping contemporary urban landscapes
The Influence of Postmodernism on Modern Art
The Role of Technology in Modern Art

Topmost Fascinating Photography as Art Ideas

The evolution of photography as a fine art medium
The impact of digital technology on the art of photography
The role of photography in contemporary art movements
The use of photography in documentary and photojournalism
The representation of marginalized groups in photography
The influence of social media on the photography industry
The role of curation in the presentation of photographic art

10 Excellent Architecture Research Paper Topics

The impact of technology on modern architectural design
The influence of sustainable design on architecture
The role of psychology in architectural design
The impact of urbanization on architecture
The influence of cultural and historical context on architecture
The relationship between architecture and the environment
The impact of the environmental movement on architecture and design.
The influence of the Art Nouveau movement on architecture
The Role of Technology in Contemporary Architecture
The Influence of the Bauhaus School on Modern Architecture

10 Awesome Contemporary Art Research Paper Topics

The commercialization of the contemporary art industry
The representation of marginalized groups in contemporary art
The impact of globalization on contemporary art
The influence of contemporary art on popular culture
The role of curation in the presentation of contemporary
The Impact of Postmodernism on Contemporary Art
The Use of Technology in Contemporary Art
The Relationship between Contemporary Art and Popular Culture
The Evolution of Contemporary Art from the 1960s to the Present

Also Read: Top Most 240+ Interesting Sociology Research Topics Ideas

10 Latest African Art Essay Paper Topics

The impact of colonialism on traditional African art
The representation of African art in Western museums
The role of women in traditional African art
The influence of religion and spirituality on African art
The impact of globalization on contemporary African art
The use of African art as a form of political and social commentary
Exploring the Role of Women in African Art
How African Art Has Evolved Through the Ages
The Influence of Traditional African Culture on Modern African Art
Exploring the Symbolic Meanings of African Art

10 Art Research Paper Topics on Compelling Renaissance

The impact of the Renaissance on the development of Western art
The role of humanism in Renaissance art
The influence of classical art and architecture on Renaissance art
The representation of women in Renaissance art
The impact of the printing press on the dissemination of Renaissance art
The influence of the Catholic Church on Renaissance art
Visual Representations of the Human Figure in Renaissance Art
The Role of the Patron in Renaissance Art
The Influence of Alchemy in Renaissance Art
The Impact of Reformation Movements on Renaissance Art

10 Most Difficult Art Research Paper Topics

The impact of the art market on artistic expression and integrity
The role of the art critic in shaping public perception of art
The relationship between art, power and politics
The impact of digital technology on the authenticity and preservation of art
The use of art as a form of cultural appropriation
The representation of gender, race, and sexuality in art
Postmodern Art as a Response to Modernism
Abstract Expressionism: The Impact of the First Avant-Garde Movement
Art and the Representation of Gender
Constructivism and Its Influence on the Arts

10 Trending Art Research Paper Topics

The Rise of Street Art : A Study of Its Impact on Urban Spaces
Art and Identity : Exploring the Role of Art in Forming Cultural Identities
The Power of Pop Art : A Study of Its Influence on Modern Visual Culture
The Impact of Digital Art on Contemporary Art Practices
The Relationship Between Art and Politics : Exploring the Influence of Art on Politics
The Role of Social Media in the Development of Art : Exploring Its Impact on the Art World
Exploring the Role of Art in Social Movements : How Art Can Spark Social Change
The Role of Art in the Representation of Gender : How Art Has Shaped Our Understanding of Gender
A Study of the History of Art : Examining the Development of Art Styles and Movements
The Impact of Graffiti on Contemporary Art : Exploring Its Influence on Art Practices

In conclusion, art research paper ideas can be diverse and varied, covering many topics that focus on specific art movement ideas. However, following all the rules and selecting a good topic can help a student write a good art research paper.

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Research into the value and impact of the arts is a core function of the National Endowment for the Arts. Through accurate, relevant, and timely analyses and reports, the Arts Endowment elucidates the factors, conditions, and characteristics of the U.S. arts ecosystem and the impact of the arts on other domains of American life.

The NEA has four priority areas of research:

Health and wellness for individuals
Cognition and learning
Economic growth and innovation
In what ways do the arts contribute to the healing and revitalization of communities ?
What is the state of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in the arts ?
How is the U.S. arts ecosystem adapting and responding to social, economic, and technological changes and challenges to the sector?

NEA Research Agenda: FY 2022-2026

Infographic of high-level research priorities

Research Agenda Planning Study

Research Stories

Quick Study Podcast : This monthly audio feature uses research to explore the arts sector and to demonstrate the arts’ value in everyday life.
Measure for Measure : Monthly arts research blog post.

Arts Research & Data

Research Publications NEA-produced in-depth reports and analyses of research topics in the arts, such as:

Arts Participation Patterns in 2022: Highlights from the Survey of Public Participation in the Arts
Online Audiences for Arts Programming: A Survey of Virtual Participation Amid COVID-19
Tech as Art: Supporting Artists Who Use Technology as a Creative Medium
Arts Strategies for Addressing the Opioid Crisis: Examining the Evidence

National Arts Statistics and Evidence-based Reporting Center (NASERC)

An online hub for monitoring the U.S. arts ecosystem through a series of national indicators, and for accessing data-driven guides and reports aimed at arts practitioners. See NASERC's launch webinar .

National Archive of Data on Arts & Culture (NADAC) An online repository of arts and cultural datasets, for analysis by scholars, arts managers, and policy leaders. A webinar tour is now available .

Arts and Cultural Production Satellite Account (ACPSA) The NEA partners with the Bureau of Economic Analysis (U.S. Department of Commerce) to provide annual reports of the economic impact of arts and culture in the United States.

Arts Data Profile Series Collections of statistics, graphics, and summary results from data-mining about the arts. Examples include datasets from the Survey for Public Participation on the Arts (SPPA), the Arts Basic Survey (ABS), the American Community Survey (ACS), and more.

Research Grants in the Arts Study Findings Working papers, publications, and presentations that so far have resulted from NEA Research Grants in the Arts funding. Topics include economy/workforce, arts participation, health, and education.

Research Labs Information on the NEA's current Research Labs, transdisciplinary research teams, grounded in the social and behavioral sciences, engaging with the NEA five-year research agenda.

The NEA’ Research Awards cover two funding opportunities for research projects that engage with the NEA’s five-year research agenda :

Research Grants in the Arts: Support for research studies that investigate the value and/or impact of the arts, either as individual components of the U.S. arts ecology or as they interact with each other and/or with other domains of American life.

Research Labs: Transdisciplinary research teams investigating the value and impact of the arts.

Initiatives

Sound Health Network A partnership of the NEA with the University of California, San Francisco in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, and Renée Fleming, the center’s artistic advisor. The Sound Health Network (SHN) was established to promote research and public awareness about the impact of music on health and wellness. Visit SHN’s website for a database of key scientific publications on music and health research, webinars, funding opportunities, and more.

Creative Forces: NEA Military Healing Arts Network An initiative of the NEA in partnership with the U.S. Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs that seeks to improve the health, well-being, and quality of life for military and veteran populations exposed to trauma, as well as their families and caregivers. Creative Forces is investing in research on the impacts and benefits—physical, social, and emotional—of these innovative treatment methods. Visit Creative Forces’ National Resource Center to learn more and to read all research associated with Creative Forces.

Arts & Human Development Task Force From 2011-2023, this federal interagency task force encouraged research on the arts and human potential.

Additional Resources

Program Evaluation and Performance Measurement Links to online resources about program evaluation and performance measurement for arts organizations.

UMass Amherst NEA Archives Collection A digitization of more than 40 years of publications on the arts and arts management.

Research Convenings (archived) National gatherings with researchers and arts and community experts.

OLD TEXT Research Agenda: FY 2022‐2026

This document sets forth a five‐year research agenda for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). In preparing this agenda, the NEA’s Office of Research & Analysis supervised a planning study that included a review of NEA research activities in the past decade, and arts-related research supported by other federal agencies. The study also used focus group meetings and interviews with field experts to gather views on priority research areas. These activities preceded a public comment period. The resulting agenda aligns with the NEA’s FY 2022-2026 strategic plan, to be published in early 2022. The agenda is based on results from a planning study conducted in 2019-2020.

See an infographic of high-level research priorities, as discussed in the agenda.

Research Publications The Arts Endowment produces in-depth reports and analyses of research topics in the arts that demonstrate the value and impact of the arts in communities throughout the country.

Arts and Cultural Production Satellite Account The National Endowment for the Arts partners with the Bureau of Economic Analysis (U.S. Department of Commerce) to provide annual reports of the economic impact of arts and culture in the United States.

Arts Data Profile Series Collections of statistics, graphics, and summary results from data-mining about the arts.

Research Grants in the Arts Study Findings Working papers, publications, and presentations that so far have resulted from NEA Research Grants in the Arts funding.

National Endowment for the Arts Research Labs Transdisciplinary research teams investigating the value and impact of the arts.

Sound Health Network A partnership of the Arts Endowment with the University of California, San Francisco in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, and Renée Fleming, the center’s artistic advisor. The Sound Health Network was established to promote research and public awareness about the impact of music on health and wellness.

Creative Forces: NEA Military Healing Arts Network Creative arts therapies at the core of patient-centered care for military members, veterans, and their families.

Arts & Human Development Task Force The federal interagency task force established in 2011 to encourage research on the arts and human potential.

Quick Study Podcast

A new monthly audio feature using research to explore the arts sector and to demonstrate the arts’ value in everyday life. Listen

Research Convenings National gatherings with researchers and arts and community experts.

Creative Forces National Resource Center/Clinical Research Findings Creative Forces invests in research on the impacts and benefits – physical, emotional, social, and economic – of creative arts therapies as innovative treatment methods.

National Archive of Data on Arts and Culture Hosted by the Inter-university Consortium for Political and Social Research at the University of Michigan. A webinar tour around the latest data on arts and culture at the National Archive of Data on Arts and Culture is now available .

Recent Research News

Arts & Cultural Sector Hit All-Time High in 2022 Value Added to U.S. Economy

New Resource from the NEA Will Monitor the Health and Vitality of the Arts in the U.S.

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National Endowment for the Arts Announces More Than $32 Million in Arts Funding to Organizations Nationwide

Research blog posts.

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Performing Arts “Crossover” Strategies Fail to Diversify Core Audiences, According to New Report

Can the arts fortify state economies in times of financial crisis yes, apparently, the expressive life of institutions—and other observations from the #healbridgethrive summit, stay connected to the national endowment for the arts.

Potential Research Topics: FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE

CIVICS, GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
CRIME AND LAW (CRIMINAL JUSTICE)
ENVIRONMENT
FILM AND TELEVISION (COMMUNICATION)

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE

HEALTH (PUBLIC HEALTH)
PERFORMING ARTS
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
SOCIAL ISSUES
Sports (Continued)

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Dutch Architect Rem Koolhaas TOPIC: Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas has reworked an old industrial building in Paris in order for it to become a showcase for contemporary art. It is his first work in the French capital. Who hired him to do this work and what was their vision for the space? How crowded with museums and galleries is Paris and how will this new one stand out? What other buildings has Koolhaas built? SEARCH TERMS: Paris AND Rem Koolhaas

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Propeller Group TOPIC: The San Jose Museum of Art is exhibiting the works of an art collective called the Propeller Group that is based both in Los Angeles and Vietnam; the collective uses a variety of formats in its art to convey a complex web of global ideologies that drive economics, culture and even war. What are some strong examples of the Propeller Group’s art that is on display in San Jose and what is the message they convey? How did the Propeller Group form and how has it grown? SEARCH TERMS: San Jose Museum of Art AND Propeller Group

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Wendell Castle TOPIC: Wendell Castle was an early craftsman to blur the line between art and furniture with his wood and metal unique designs giving him the nickname Father of the Art Furniture Movement. What are some of the major awards that he’s won? Who are some successful craftspeople who have cited Wendell Castle as a major influence on their work? Where did Wendell Castle teach and what school did he open in 1980? SEARCH TERMS: Wendell Castle AND furniture

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Museum of Old and New Art in Tasmania TOPIC: The Museum of Old and New Art (Mona) in Hobart, Tasmania, has opened a new wing called Pharos. It includes four new works by James Turrell, which use light and color to affect their viewers. Which of these works seem most interesting to you? Why? What other works has Turrell done, and which one would you most like to see? Why? SEARCH TERMS: Museum of Old and New Art AND James Turrell

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Louvre Abu Dhabi TOPIC: The Louvre Abu Dhabi has opened, with French President Macron in attendance. What other world leaders joined him at the opening? What are the inaugural exhibits and where do the artworks come from? Who designed the museum and what was controversial about its construction? SEARCH TERMS: Louvre Abu Dhabi

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Painting of Washington’s Tent TOPIC: The Museum of the American Revolution has just acquired a previously unknown painting showing one of Gen. George Washington’s tents during the Revolutionary War. Who is the painter and what is known of the location of the painting? How did the museum acquire this painting? SEARCH TERMS: painting AND George Washington AND tent AND Museum of the American Revolution

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Renewal TOPIC: Chartres Cathedral is undergoing a cleaning restoration, that has left the walls restored to their initial light-colored stone work and has cleaned the windows of years of smoke and grime. Some critics are appalled by the results, arguing that lightening the walls has lessened the impact of the stained-glass colors. What are some of the other criticisms of this work? How has the renovator responded to these critiques? SEARCH TERMS: Chartres Cathedral AND cleaning

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Ai Weiwei Protest TOPIC: A planned installation in New York City’s Washington Square Park by Chinese artist Ai Weiwei has drawn complaints from a neighborhood association on behalf of many in the area that have concerns about it. What is the name and description of the planned installation and what is the basis of the complaints that neighbors are making? What are some of the best-known artworks of Ai Weiwei and what political causes has he taken up? SEARCH TERMS: Washington Square AND Ai Weiwei

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Czech Sculptor Dies TOPIC : Olbram Zoubek was a Czech sculptor. What sculptors influenced his work? What is his best-known work? How interesting is his work and would you like to see it? SEARCH TERMS: Olbram Zoubek

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: 99 Cents or Less TOPIC: The Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit is holding a group show that has challenged artists to create works under specific low-cost conditions. What are these specific conditions? How does this exhibit attempt to reflect the spirit of Detroit? SEARCH TERMS: 99 Cents or Less AND Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Vermeer and His Peers TOPIC: The Louvre has opened a show that has situated Dutch painter Vermeer among his contemporaries. While his greatness as a painter remains undimmed, the show reveals that many of his contemporaries were very good indeed. Who among his fellow painters is featured in this show? What is the type of painting featured and how does it differ from other paintings? What makes Vermeer so great? SEARCH TERMS: Louvre AND Vermeer

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: The Atlanta Cyclorama TOPIC: A fragile six-ton painting of the U.S. Civil War called the Atlanta Cyclorama is being carefully moved from a building in Atlanta’s Grant Park where it’s been for almost a century, to the Atlanta History Center. What are the different parts of the Cyclorama titled, what does each piece depict, who painted it and when? What is the process for moving this heavy but fragile work of art? SEARCH TERMS: Cyclorama AND Atlanta History Center

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Museum Head Named TOPIC: Maria Balshaw has been named to succeed Sir Nicholas Serota as the head of the Tate, which runs four museums in the United Kingdom. What were her qualifications for this job? How do others in the art world rate her? What were highlights of Serota’s period of leadership? SEARCH TERMS: Tate AND Maria Balshaw

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Christo’s Protest TOPIC: The artist couple Christo and Jeanne-Claude, known for their large environmental installations, have halted work on their latest project called Over the River in protest of the policies of President Trump. What did this project entail and what were the policies of Trump that these artists most objected to? What are some of their most famous works? SEARCH TERMS: Christo AND Over the River AND Trump

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Replica of Early Art Spot TOPIC: A replica of the Lascaux cave, complete with its cave paintings, has opened in southern France. The original cave was closed to visitors in 1963 over concerns that humans visiting it were inadvertently damaging the cave art. What is notable about this cave art? How was the facsimile created? How were the artworks replicated? Does this seem like a good place to visit? SEARCH TERMS: Lascaux AND cave paintings

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Eko Nugroho TOPIC: New York City’s Asia Society Museum will be exhibiting the work of Indonesian artist Eko Nugroho which is inspired by murals and other artworks he sees on the streets. What are some formats that his art is presented in and how does it relate to street art? What is his background and how did he develop as an artist? SEARCH TERMS: Eko Nugroho

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: International Art Show TOPIC: South Korea’s Gwangju Biennale is an international art show with major political overtones as it is held in the city (Gwangju) where in 1980 authorities killed over 500 pro-democracy protesters. Where are the artists from and what kind of art do they do? Who chose the theme and selected the artists represented at the biennale? What are some of the more notable themes in the display? SEARCH TERMS : Gwangju Biennale

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Cinema in Art TOPIC: New York City’s Whitney Museum is hosting an exhibit called Dreamlands: Immersive Cinema and Art, 1905–2016 that explores ways in which artists have used cinema techniques for moving images in art. What artists are being exhibited in Dreamlands, which are getting the most attention from the critics and why? What are some of the more compelling ways that artists have used cinema techniques in art? SEARCH TERMS : Whitney Museum AND Dreamlands

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Frieze Art Fair TOPIC: The Frieze Art Fair in London takes place in a tent in Regents Park and attracts collectors from around the world. What were some of the galleries that exhibited there and what artists did they feature? Was there any overarching theme to the fair? What art, from its description, seems interesting to you? SEARCH TERMS: Frieze Art Fair

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Yale Keeps Van Gogh Painting TOPIC: Pierre Konowaloff has lost his family’s appeal to claim ownership of a painting of Vincent Van Gogh’s that is currently owned by Yale University. What was the case he made to try to convince the court his family owned the painting? Which painting of Van Gogh’s is it and what are the qualities in the painting that impress art critics? SEARCH TERMS: Yale AND Van Gogh AND Konowaloff

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Art Theft TOPIC: Armed robbers broke in to the Castelvecchio Museum in Verona, Italy and made off with 17 Old Masters paintings. Works by Tintoretto, Rubens and Bellini were among those stolen. What other works were taken by the thieves? How did the thieves get into the museum and how quickly were they able to grab their loot? SEARCH TERMS: Castelvecchio Museum AND theft

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Art in Little Haiti TOPIC: The neighborhood of Little Haiti in Miami, Florida is developing as a spot for new art galleries and the relocation of others that find themselves priced out of Miami's other neighborhoods. What are some of the galleries here, and what kind of art is displayed in them? What are some examples of other artistic districts in cities that have moved around as the economies of neighborhoods change and what are some details of their situations? SEARCH TERMS: (art OR galler*) AND Little Haiti AND Miami

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Exhibition Cancelled TOPIC : Ai Weiwei, in response to a recently passed Danish law that takes from refugees valuables worth over $1500 to be applied to their resettlement costs, has withdrawn his artwork from two Danish institutions. Did he do the right thing? Should refugees who can afford it be asked to contribute to their resettlement? Or is merely the state piling more misery on already battered people? SEARCH TERMS: Ai Weiwei AND Denmark

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Prize Winner TOPIC: Chilean architect Alejandro Aravena has won the Pritzker Prize. Who established this prize and how is it regarded in the profession it honors? Why was Aravena chosen for this honor? What are his buildings like and are there any in the United States? SEARCH TERMS: Pritzker Prize AND Alejandro Aravena

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Angry Birds Artist TOPIC: Seattle artist Juli Adams has won a settlement after she sued because her concept and design for Hartz Mountain Corporation’s Angry Birds pet toys was licensed to Rovio Entertainment without her permission and then went on to become a hugely popular video game. What are the intellectual property laws regarding the use of artwork and design that were a key part of this case? What determined the size of the settlement? SEARCH TERMS: Juli Adams AND Angry Birds

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: British Museum TOPIC: Dr. Hartwig Fischer has been chosen to run the British Museum. He is currently the director general of the Dresden State Art Collection in Germany. Ironically, the man he is replacing, Neil MacGregor, is heading to Berlin to a job at the Humboldt Forum. What are Dr. Fischer’s qualifications to head this prestigious institution? What were some of MacGregor’s successes at the British Museum? What types of work does the British Museum house? SEARCH TERMS: (Hartwig Fischer OR Neil MacGregor) AND British Museum

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Martha Armstrong TOPIC: Martha Armstrong is getting positive reviews for the exhibit of her paintings at the Bowery Gallery in New York City. What is the style of her painting and what are the qualities that impress the critics? What other artists has she been compared to and why? SEARCH TERMS : Martha Armstrong AND painting?

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Changing Names TOPIC: The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is renaming artwork. An example is changing the name of the painting Young Negro Girl to Young Girl with a Fan. Curators note that often names of artworks are not made by the artists themselves, but by others. What are some of the other offensive words that theyâ€™ll be altering in these titles? Do you agree with this effort or do you think the original titles should be kept? SEARCH TERMS: Rijksmuseum AND titles

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Ellsworth Kelly TOPIC: Ellsworth Kelly was a painter and sculptor. What was his style of painting and what were the qualities in his work that most impressed the critics? What are some of his most famous works and why were they famous? What is hard edge painting and who else works in this style? SEARCH TERMS: Ellsworth Kelly AND (painter OR painting

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Colin Davis Paints the Bereaved TOPIC: British portrait artist Colin Davis has an exhibition called Silent Testimony which are portraits of family members of those killed in the Northern Ireland Troubles as well as those injured in the conflict. Where is the exhibition currently taking place? What city will the exhibition be shown next and why is it significant that it be shown there? SEARCH TERMS: Colin Davis

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: International Pop in Philadelphia TOPIC: The Philadelphia Museum of Art is having an exhibit called International Pop that shows how pop art has spread around the world. Who are some of the major artists from different countries being represented and what are the most impressive qualities of their work? What defines pop art and what is its appeal to the public? SEARCH TERMS: Philadelphia Museum of Art AND pop art

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Zaha Hadid TOPIC: Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid was the first woman to win the Pritzker Prize. What notable buildings did she design? What was distinctive about her designs? Beyond the Pritzker, what other honors and awards did she win? Do her buildings look appealing? SEARCH TERMS: Zaha Hadid

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Robert Mapplethorpe TOPIC: Exhibits of the work of photographer Robert Mapplethorpe at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and The J. Paul Getty Museum as well as an HBO documentary and a new book on Mapplethorpe have made him a headlining artist again. What are the strong talents that he brought to photography? What was controversial about some of his photographs and how did it make news in the late 1980s? SEARCH TERMS: Robert Mapplethorpe

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: James Nachtwey TOPIC: War photographer James Nachtwey has won the Princess of Asturias prize for communication and humanities. The prize is named for the heir to the Spanish throne and was begun in the 1980s by the current King of Spain, when he was the heir to the throne. How long has he been a war photographer and what wars has he covered? What did the Princess of Asturias Foundation say about his work? SEARCH TERMS: James Nachtwey AND Princess of Asturias Prize

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: 3-D Exhibit at Getty Center TOPIC: The Getty Center in Los Angeles is exhibiting a 3D tour of China’s ancient Cave Temples of Dunhuang. What are the different components of this exhibit and what is the history behind the artifacts being displayed? What technologies are being used in the exhibit and how do they work? SEARCH TERMS: Getty Center AND Cave Temples of Dunhuang

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Lost Masterpiece TOPIC : A painting that may possibly be a lost work by Caravaggio has been discovered in France. It depicts a scene from the Old Testament. Who is Caravaggio and what is notable about his work? What Biblical scene does it depict? How common are Biblical scenes in Caravaggio’s work? SEARCH TERMS : Caravaggio

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Cindy Sherman TOPIC: After taking five years off from her famous self-portraits, photographer Cindy Sherman is having an exhibition at the Metro Pictures gallery in New York City. What is the theme of this latest exhibition and what are some of the qualities in her work that are consistent or different from her past work? What are the qualities of her work that have SEARCH TERMS : Cindy Sherman AND photography

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Christo and The Floating Piers TOPIC : Christo has transformed Lake Iseo in northern Italy by connecting two small islands and the mainland with a floating walkway, covered in orange fabric. Visitors can walk the three kilometer distance that’s titled The Floating Piers. What are some of his other installations? What is a major difference between this one and his previous ones? Would you like to see this short lived work of art? SEARCH TERMS: Christo AND Lake Iseo AND installation

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Michael Graves Home TOPIC: The former home and studio of architect Michael Graves is being bought by Kean University to form the Michael Graves School of Architecture. What are some of the most famous public buildings designed by him? What style of architecture is he most known for and what are some signature features of his designs? SEARCH TERMS: Michael Graves AND Kean University

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: John Partridge TOPIC: John Partridge was a British architect. His career began working for the London County Council on housing at Roehampton. Later he and three others founded their own firm. What types of work did the firm do? What were some of his notable buildings? SEARCH TERMS : John Partridge

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Comic-Con TOPIC: San Diego Comic-Con International is an annual convention that started as a comic book convention and has now grown to a multi-genre popular culture convention. What aspect of the convention’s original comic book roots remain dominant in the current convention? What were the most popular arts being featured that this year’s Comic-Con convention and why were they popular? SEARCH TERMS: Comic-Con AND San Diego

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Marc Riboud TOPIC: Marc Riboud was a French photographer. He was a photojournalist who rarely photographed the famous or powerful. Where was much of his work published? What famous agency did he belong to? What are his two most iconic images? SEARCH TERMS: Marc Riboud

FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: The Exploratorium TOPIC : The Exploratorium, a creative science museum in San Francisco, has opened a new installation intended to make public places livelier. Chime Way is an interactive exhibit where the patron can sit in a tunnel-like formation, and create and/or listen to the beauty of sound. How does public art enhance communities? What kinds of beautification ideas do you have to make the public places in your hometown livelier? What is the process that you would need to utilize to make your proposal? SEARCH TERMS : public art AND (town OR city) and beaut*

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ORIGINAL RESEARCH article

Arts-based research approaches to studying mechanisms of change in the creative arts therapies.

$\r\nNancy Gerber,*$

1 Department of Creative Arts Therapies, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
2 Department of Art Education, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, United States
3 Mary Pappert School of Music and School of Nursing, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States

The purpose of this preliminary qualitative research study is to explore the role and function of multiple dynamic interactive aesthetic and intersubjective phenomena in the creative arts therapies process relative to transformation in perception, behavior, relationship, and well-being. A group of doctoral students and faculty studied these phenomena in an analogous creative arts therapies laboratory context using a method called Intrinsic Arts-Based Research. Intrinsic Arts-Based Research is a systematic study of psychological, emotional, relational, and arts-based phenomena, parallel to those emergent in the creative arts therapies, using individual and collective intrinsic immersive and reflective experience in combination with qualitative and arts-based research methods. Our primary goal was to simulate the creative arts therapies experience in order to identify, document, and describe the complex transformative phenomena that occur at the nexus of arts-based expression, reflection, and relationships in the arts therapies. For the purposes of this paper transformation is defined as “…. a significant reconfiguration of perception and thought resulting in the lessening of psychic restraint and pain, allowing for the emergence of new psychological perspectives that contribute to living a more creative life” ( Gerber et al., 2012 , p. 45). Through a deductive thematic analysis of written accounts of these simulated creative arts therapies experiences by participant/researchers in the laboratory we identified three primary dynamic and interactive broad constructs that together, with more specific modifying themes, might account for and describe change within the creative arts therapies. These broad dynamic interactive themes are: ruptures, resolutions, and transformation; relationship and intersubjectivity; and, arts-based expressive processes. The more specific modifying themes include: dialectical rupture and resolution, relational attunements and ruptures, imaginational flow, transcendence and ruptures, sensory/kinesthetic/embodied ways of knowing, and intersubjective transcendence . We propose that change in the creative arts therapies is driven more by a dynamic system of interactive phenomena the varying combinations of which create conditions for relational attunement, imagination, dialectical tensions and creative resolutions, and the ultimately creative transformation.

Introduction

“ In the experience of art we see a genuine experience… induced by the work which does not leave him who has it unchanged… so we hope to better understand what kind of truth it is that encounters us there” ( Gadamer, 1975/2003 , p. 100).

The purpose of this preliminary qualitative research study is to explore the role and function of multiple dynamic aesthetic and intersubjective phenomena in the creative arts therapies that might be considered mechanisms of change. A group of doctoral students and faculty have been studying these phenomena in an analogous creative arts therapies laboratory context using a method called Intrinsic Arts-Based Research. Intrinsic Arts-Based Research is a systematic study of psychological, emotional, relational and arts-based phenomena using individual and collective intrinsic immersive and reflective experience in combination with qualitative and arts-based research methods. Our primary goal is to simulate the creative arts therapies experience in order to identify, document, and describe the complex transformative phenomena that occur at the nexus of arts-based expression, reflection, and relationships in the arts therapies. For the purposes of this paper transformation is defined as “…. a significant reconfiguration of perception and thought resulting in the lessening of psychic restraint and pain, allowing for the emergence of new psychological perspectives that contribute to living a more creative life” ( Gerber et al., 2012 , p. 45).

Since the beginning of this project 8 years ago, we have continually engaged in an ongoing critical reflection and evaluation of our underlying philosophical assumptions about the nature of reality and knowledge for our creative arts therapies fields. Through the examination of our philosophical assumptions we created and adopted an aesthetic intersubjective paradigm ( Chilton et al., 2015 ). This worldview is predicated upon the philosophical assumptions that our perceptions, relationships, and behavior are conceived and reside in dynamic co-constructed pluralistic intersubjective realities in which an aesthetic epistemic comprises the knowledge and communication. We define aesthetics as pre-verbal sensory-based, embodied perceptual and imaginal knowledge that emerges and acquires meaning in intersecting historical and current intersubjective narratives ( Cooper, 1997 ; Harris-Williams, 2010 ; Brown, 2011 ; Chilton et al., 2015 ). Intersubjectivity is defined as a pre-verbal unconscious phenomenon wherein “jointly constructed narrative… ascribes meaning to experience for which no language previously existed” ( Brown, 2011 , p. 1) and “communication and meaning making between two intrapsychic worlds… results in changes within each member…” ( Brown, 2011 , p. 109). Intersubjectivity emphasizes the shared lived experience in which heightened empathy and attunement allows one to enter the emotional experience of another in order to co-construct a new, re-imagined, and often transformative life narrative ( Stern, 2005 ).

These ontological and epistemic foundations of the creative arts therapies represent the archeology of the most profound human emotional and relational constructs essential to understanding the nuances and complexities of the human experience. Implicit in the creative arts therapies worldview is that aesthetic intersubjective ways of being and knowing exist on the periphery of consciousness inaccessible through traditional investigative methods or verbal discourse. In creative arts therapies practice we use our arts forms to elicit the expression of these most profound experiences, construct personal narratives, and enhance self-awareness within a carefully constructed and emotionally held relationship; while in research, we use arts-based methods for purposes of systematic inquiry into creative arts therapies phenomena.

Based upon our adopted worldview and our objectives to study transformative processes in the creative arts therapies, we selected a comparable arts-based research philosophical and methodological approach to investigate these complex aesthetic intersubjective human phenomena. The arts-based research approach we adopted is one in which the arts are used as the primary method of systematic investigation and analysis throughout the research process ( Hervey, 2000 ; McNiff, 2008 ; Kossak, 2012 ; Viega, 2016 ) “…as a primary way of understanding and examining experience…” ( McNiff, 2008 , p. 29) in the study of the multi-dimensional psychological and socio-cultural human condition ( Gerber and Myers-Coffman, 2017 ). Furthermore, Barone and Eisner (2012) assert that “[arts] based research is an effort to extend beyond the limiting constraints of discursive communication in order to express meanings that otherwise would be ineffable” (1).

To implement our arts-based research study of the therapeutic and transformational phenomena in the creative arts therapies we developed a creative arts therapies laboratory in which a group of doctoral students and faculty simulated the creative arts therapies and studied the parallel individual and collective arts-based intersubjective processes. We created and used what we call an intrinsic arts-based research method ( Hagman, 2005 ; Levine, 2005 ; Gerber et al., 2012 ; Chilton et al., 2015 ; Gerber and Scotti, 2017 ). Within the intrinsic arts-based research approach, we used ourselves as participant/researchers to study arts-based relational phenomena as they emerge organically within the intersubjective context paralleling the creative arts therapies process. As participant/researchers, we navigated between the immersive arts-based intersubjective process and reflective analytic procedures documenting our experiences through arts-based expressions, reflective journaling, group discussions, qualitative and arts-based data analysis. The results of our inquiries were analyzed, synthesized, and documented in culminating textual and arts-based projects at the conclusion of each academic term with a retrospective summative analysis at the end of the year.

This article represents a preliminary qualitative analysis of a sampling of these retrospective culminating projects written by doctoral student participant/researchers over the past 8 years who sought to answer the question: “What are the factors that contribute to therapeutic mechanisms, psychological understanding, meaning making, and transformation within the intersubjective arts therapies process?” in this creative arts therapies laboratory course ( Gerber et al., 2012 ; Gerber and Scotti, 2017 ).

In this preliminary phase of the project we have randomly selected eight retrospective de-identified study records representing student culminating projects from the creative arts therapies laboratory course and adopted a deductive or theoretical thematic analytic approach ( Braun and Clarke, 2006 ) to study patterns of evidence relative to transformative experiences. We selected this approach for the explicit purposes of developing and evaluating a coding system based upon exogenous research and theory about transformative phenomena to compare to the heuristic data generated from our intrinsic arts-based and qualitative investigations. Our aim was to determine how our emergent intrinsic phenomena aligned with extrinsic empirical mechanisms of transformation to further understand what creative arts therapies processes contribute to change. To identify deductive thematic concepts for our study, we conducted a review of the literature focused on the definitions of mechanisms of change in general, and mechanisms of change in psychotherapy and the creative arts therapies.

In contemporary scientific research, particularly within the domains of medicine and the physical sciences, mechanisms of change are defined as causal and measurable variables that statistically account for the relationship between a particular therapeutic intervention and outcome ( Kazdin, 2007 ). Kazdin and Nock (2003) stated that mechanisms of change not only represent the causal relationship but also “reflect the processes through which therapeutic change occurs” or “those processes or events that lead to and cause therapeutic change” (1117). According to Kazdin (2007) mechanisms are evaluated based upon principles of association, plausibility, consistency, experimental manipulation, timeline, and gradient ( Kazdin, 2007 ). Petrik and Cronin (2014 , p. 284) resonate with this definition but add that in psychotherapy mechanisms are the “theory driven reason that change occurs in therapy or the how or why of the therapeutic change.” They add, in addressing mechanisms of change in psychotherapy, that the mechanisms inhabit the dynamic interaction between technique, client-therapist processes, and outcomes.

Mechanisms are interconnected with moderators, which are pre-existing and co-existing conditions, and mediators, which are other intervening variables that influence the causal mechanistic effect ( Kazdin and Nock, 2003 ; Johansson and HØglend, 2007 ; Kazdin, 2007 ). A moderator is considered to be a “pre-treatment variable” that relates to “for whom and under what conditions the effects will occur” ( Johansson and HØglend, 2007 , p. 2) such as gender, illness severity, genetic pre-dispositions, family, medical and psychological history, as well as social constructs such community and culture ( Kazdin and Nock, 2003 , p. 1118; Johansson and HØglend, 2007 ). A mediator is an “intervening variable” ( Kazdin, 2007 , p. 3) that represents processes occurring within the individual such as “abilities, functioning, or capacities” and statistically “accounts for the relation between treatment and outcome” ( Johansson and HØglend, 2007 , p. 2; Kazdin, 2007 ). Mediating variables occupy differing “temporal and causal positions” (p. 2) as well as the “mode of operation (direct or indirect)” ( Kazdin and Nock, 2003 , p. 1118) all of which require consideration, measurement, and correlation with the outcomes. In contrast to the physical sciences, the numerous idiosyncratic variables and intangible dynamic processes in psychotherapy make it challenging and perhaps counterproductive to isolate singular cause and effect relationship between process and outcome ( Hayes et al., 2007 ; Petrik and Cronin, 2014 ).

In reviewing what are considered to be mechanisms of change within the psychotherapy literature there is general agreement that aspects of the therapeutic relationship, elements of self-expression, increased levels of consciousness and memory, dialectical tensions, destabilization, ruptures and resolutions, reconfigured and re-storied self-narratives, and self-reflection act as interactive agents of change ( Ogden, 1992 ; Knill, 2005 ; Hayes et al., 2007 ; Israelstam, 2007 ; Zittoun, 2011 ; Caddy et al., 2012 ; Forster et al., 2014 ; Van Lith, 2015 ; Haas-Cohen and Clyde Findlay, 2015 ; Lane et al., 2015 ; Czamanski-Cohen and Weihs, 2016 ). Additionally, there are numerous theories that identify multiple neurological, psychological, cultural, social, temporal, and intersubjective factors that moderate and mediate the transformation of thought, perception, emotion, and behavior in psychotherapy within and between these identified mechanisms ( Bollas, 2002 ; Hayes et al., 2007 ; Israelstam, 2007 ; Harris-Williams, 2010 ; Brown, 2011 ; Zittoun, 2011 ; Forster et al., 2014 ; Haas-Cohen and Clyde Findlay, 2015 ; Czamanski-Cohen and Weihs, 2016 ).

The research in the creative arts therapies related to mechanisms of change is limited in scope and methodology although there are some formative related to mechanisms or phenomena of change. These preliminary theories, in many cases, intersect with those of psychotherapy, suggesting that change occurs within an emotionally attuned therapeutic relationship in which individuals can express themselves through the arts, access and revive memories through sensory and embodied knowledge, gain a sense of safety and relief from tension, reflect and learn about themselves through the therapist/client/arts triadic dialog, progress incrementally through developmental stages, transcend their mental suffering, and enhance their overall psychological and social well-being ( Hayes et al., 2007 ; Israelstam, 2007 ; Zittoun, 2011 ; Caddy et al., 2012 ; Forster et al., 2014 ; Haas-Cohen and Clyde Findlay, 2015 ; Lane et al., 2015 ; Van Lith, 2015 ; Czamanski-Cohen and Weihs, 2016 ). Additionally, self-reflection, enhanced levels of consciousness, the necessity for tension, rupture and resolution within a “dialectically attuned” ( Israelstam, 2007 ) therapeutic relationship and the resultant re-imagining and re-creation of personal narratives are all constructs that intersect with the emergent mechanisms of change in the creative arts therapies.

Although creative arts therapies processes associated with transformation may be congruent with those of psychotherapy, differences may be noted in the primacy and value assigned to certain transformational processes associated with the arts-based relational epistemic. For instance in the creative arts therapies the sensory/embodied experiences and relational attunement, the transcendent qualities of imagination and creativity, the reenactment of relational histories within the therapeutic relationship, and the communicative, dialogic, and metaphoric qualities of the arts may assume primacy ( Patterson et al., 2011 ; Gerber et al., 2012 ; Haas-Cohen and Clyde Findlay, 2015 ; Van Lith, 2015 ; Czamanski-Cohen and Weihs, 2016 ).

The literature reviewed herein reflects promising emergent trends in identifying mechanisms of change in psychotherapy and the creative arts therapies, however, additional exploration is required to advance our knowledge and establish an epistemically sound evidence base for assessing change as it exists and operates specifically within the creative arts therapies. In this paper we aim to add to the emerging bodies of knowledge about proposed and emergent mechanisms and phenomena of change in the creative arts therapies.

Materials and Methods

The methods for this project included data generation and data analysis phases. These phases included the generation of the records reviewed for the study, the selection of the retrospective study records for coding and analysis, the human subjects ethical institutional board review and approval, the development of the deductive coding system, the organization, coding and categorization of the data, inter-coder alignment, analysis and interpretation, the identification of the primary and modifying themes, synthesis, and presentation of the findings.

In the first part of this section we describe the laboratory context and methods from which the textual data in the study records were generated and, in the second section we present the procedures for our deductive and interpretive coding and thematic analysis of the retrospective data.

Data Generation

The first phase of our investigation was designed to explore questions related to the nature of therapeutic processes and phenomena of change in the creative arts therapies. To address these questions, we developed a creative arts therapies laboratory course designed specifically to simulate and study arts-based, expressive, and intersubjective phenomena parallel to those in the creative arts therapies. The laboratory course ran for four academic quarters or 1 year over a period of 8 years during which we engaged doctoral students in the Ph.D. in Creative Arts Therapies program, from the disciplines of art therapy, dance/movement therapy, and music therapy, as participant/researchers. We used a method called Intrinsic Arts-Based Research. Intrinsic Arts-based Research originates from a psychoanalytic perspective in which the authentic intra- and inter-psychic experiences and data emerge organically through free associative processes within a relational context. In this method, we used and documented our individual and collective intrinsic aesthetic intersubjective experiences as participant/researchers in order to identify and describe the arts-based intersubjective processes that contribute to self/other awareness and narratives, metaphoric expression, insight, and transformation in the creative arts therapies.

The structure of the laboratory experience included a 30-min check-in about afterthoughts and remote reflections from the previous class and discussion of the assigned readings. The second part of the class was 1 h of undirected arts-based exploration in which the students became the participants immersed in all aspects of the intrinsic intersubjective arts-based experience. The goal was to study the authentic experience of the participants as they transitioned in and out of the intersubjective arts-space, experienced the challenges of creating arts-based responses within the intersubjective space. Following this 1 h of authentic intersubjective arts-based exploration, students were asked to step out of their participant role and step into a researcher role devoting 30 min to reflecting upon and documenting their arts-based intersubjective experiences in their journal. Finally, the last portion of the laboratory is a discussion sharing the individual and collective arts-based and intersubjective experiences with the group. Our investigation was designed to answer the following question:

“What are the factors that contribute to therapeutic mechanisms, psychological understanding, meaning making, and transformation within the intersubjective arts therapies process?”

From this simulated creative arts therapies experience students generated multiple types of data which included the arts-based immersive responses, reflective journal entries, group discussions, iterative arts-based reflective responses, and relevant literature. At critical points in the laboratory courses the students would organize, analyze and synthesize these multiple data types through a hybrid of thematic qualitative and arts-based approaches. The results of these analyses were written, arts-based, and performative culminating projects representing the formative findings from each course and summative findings from cumulative courses. These culminating projects became the retrospective records for this research project used to study the mechanisms of transformation.

Participants

In this research project the “participants” were eight de-identified study records from four students who participated in the laboratory course. The study records were the culminating written and arts based projects representing an analysis and synthesis of the intrinsic arts-based, observational, and reflective data collected by the student participant/researchers at the conclusion of each academic quarter in the laboratory course. Although the course has been in existence for 8 years, the records studied were selected for this study from the year 2012–2016 and represented three different student cohorts. The years from 2012 to 2016 were selected in order to include papers written only by students who had completed the course to avoid potential conflicts related to study participation and course evaluation. The laboratory course was conducted over a period of four academic quarters or 10 months per year, thus, in order to explore the progression of thematic trends over time, we selected one paper from the introductory course and one from the advanced course from each student in each cohort. These records were selected randomly, de-identified, given a participant identification number to replace the name, and paired by course and student. This initial sampling de-identification and pairing was conducted solely by the course instructor/primary author to protect the confidentiality of the students during analysis and publication. The study records and their content were used as primarily aggregate data for thematic analysis with the exception of exemplary de-identified excerpts used to amplify the meaning of the thematic results.

We complied with all human subjects ethical guidelines and had the study approved by the Drexel University Institutional Review Board which is the official human subjects research ethics body in the university. In compliance with the human subjects’ ethical guidelines and with respect for the students and graduates of the program who might have records in the project we notified them about the intention of the investigators to use de-identified aggregate and excerpted data from the records in the study and gave them the opportunity to withdraw their records or review their own records for identifiers. One complication with the de-identification, is that the arts-based investigative responses, central to the intrinsic arts-based research process and the culminating projects, had to be excluded, but descriptions of these processes are still very present in the textual data.

Data Organization and Coding

The coding system is a deductive or theoretical qualitative research approach designed to arrive at the identification of patterns of evidence and predominant themes relevant to our topic and research questions. The “ ‘theoretical’ thematic analysis would tend to be driven by the researcher’s theoretical or analytic interest in the area, and is thus more explicitly analyst driven” ( Braun and Clarke, 2006 , p. 84).

We intentionally selected this deductive method for our data analysis to juxtapose and align the extrinsic empirical and theoretical data alongside the inductive data generated in the intrinsic arts based research phase ( Braun and Clarke, 2006 ). Selecting and aligning these two data types and sources was a strategic decision designed to systematically compare, contrast, and integrate the intrinsic and extrinsic perspectives related to transformation for purposes of credibility and authenticity.

To develop the deductive coding system, we conducted a search of the current psychotherapy and creative arts therapies literature from which we identified and extracted the references to mechanisms or phenomena of change and transformation most frequently and consensually reported. We also included emergent evidence based constructs from the course objectives and processes. From these phenomena, we constructed our a priori parent coding categories. The a prior i parent coding categories were then further modified and defined by child codes that contributed to identifying and modifying specific aspects or operations of the parent codes. Our a priori coding categories were organized into the following parent categories for the initial deductive thematic analysis: arts making processes and arts-based research, expression and communication, reflection and awareness, relationships, ruptures, intersubjectivity, and transformation. The child codes and their relationship to their parent codes are presented in Table 1 . A coding book including categories and definitions for parent and child codes was developed provided for the coders to enhance inter-coder alignment.

TABLE 1. A priori parent and child coding categories.

Defining Coding Categories

The family of parent and child codes were defined not only to identify current trends in the literature, but also to increase inter-coder alignment across the three coders. Each parent code category housed modifying child categories that contributed to the defining properties of the parent category. The child categories were explicitly used in the actual coding process with implicit connections to the parent categories as illustrated in Table 1 . Throughout the initial coding process it became apparent, as is the case with most qualitative research coding and analysis, that certain a priori codes were assigned more frequently to excerpts in the textual data while others were not used frequently or at all. The most frequently used and meaningful codes emerged as our preliminary thematic results and are highlighted in Table 1 in bold italics.

Parent Categories

The parent code definitions are included below but space restrictions prohibit the definitions of the child codes here.

Expression/Communication

Methods and modes by which thoughts are made visible or audible within an intersubjective context. Examples might be a sensations, embodiment, and emotions expressed through arts, talking, writing, enacting and discussion that releases tension enhances functionality ( Zittoun, 2011 ; Van Lith, 2015 ; Czamanski-Cohen and Weihs, 2016 ).

Art Making Processes

The process of letting meaning emerge through a dynamic relationship between participants and the art media representing historical and current relational phenomena. Creative activity of making thoughts visible through arts process stimulates complex mind/body interactions contributing to the growth of new neural networks ( Zittoun, 2011 ; Caddy et al., 2012 ; Haas-Cohen and Clyde Findlay, 2015 ; Czamanski-Cohen and Weihs, 2016 ).

Reflection and Awareness

Making thoughts visible and learning how to think about and re-think about them through mentalization ( Forster et al., 2014 ) and/or visualization within the presence of another ( Zittoun, 2011 ; Forster et al., 2014 ). Surrendering to the unconscious, emergent thoughts, sensations, emotions engaging in implicit to explicit processing ( Czamanski-Cohen and Weihs, 2016 ). Creative reflection in the potential space leading to new knowledge and transformation through engagement with and resolution of existential dialectical tensions ( Bollas, 2002 ; Israelstam, 2007 ).

Relationship

An attentive and attuned relational alliance, merging past and present intersubjective narratives, constructed within an emotionally safe space for purposes of facilitating self-expression, self-exploration, reflection, and change. The therapeutic alliance makes room for free talking pre-verbal cognitions, attunement and the emotional space to hold dialectical tensions in the potential space. The potential space allows the individual to: (1) “hear from “his/her “own unconscious”; (2) engage in creative dialectical discourse between me and not-me: and, (3) make the “invisible psychic apparatus of the mind become visible and new narratives to emerge” ( Symington, 1996 ; Bollas, 2002 , p. 10; Knill, 2005 ; Israelstam, 2007 ; Kazdin, 2007 ; Brown, 2011 ; Zittoun, 2011 ; Forster et al., 2014 ).

Intersubjectivity

Joining with others in the unconscious or conscious co-creation of personal and collective narratives. The co-creation of the group narrative based on the sensory, kinesthetic, emotional, embodied and symbolic forms of knowledge. Awareness and relevance of the presence of others, both peers and leaders, and how this awareness informs and appears in the arts process and product ( Knill, 2005 ; Stern, 2005 ; Brown, 2011 ; Zittoun, 2011 ; Schwartz, 2012 ; Czamanski-Cohen and Weihs, 2016 ).

Ruptures include mind/body interactions and ways of thinking that interrupt or rupture repetition compulsion, ritual, beliefs, or routine changing meaning and creating new neural pathways ( Hayes et al., 2007 ; Israelstam, 2007 ; Zittoun, 2011 ; Forster et al., 2014 ; Czamanski-Cohen and Weihs, 2016 ).

Transformation

“A significant reconfiguration of perception and thought resulting in the lessening of psychic restraint and pain allowing for the emergence of new psychological perspectives that contribute to living a more creative life” ( Gerber et al., 2012 , p. 45). Arousal of memories, re-activation of emotions, levels of consciousness resulting in new learning and insight ( Hayes et al., 2007 ; Israelstam, 2007 ; Zittoun, 2011 ; Van Lith, 2015 ; Lane et al., 2015 ; Czamanski-Cohen and Weihs, 2016 ).

Coders and Inter-Coder Alignment

The coders included one alumnus and one current PhD Candidate in addition to the laboratory course instructor. All students and alumni who had participated in and completed the laboratory course were invited to participate in the project. Each student coder had taken the course at a different time and with a different cohort while the instructor had been present for all of the courses. As a result each coder brought a different perspective based upon his/her experiences and roles as participant/researcher in the course factoring into and enriching the assignation and interpretation of the codes. We coded in pairs for each record in attempts to contribute to the credibility of the results by including multiple perspectives and member checks.

Based upon these multiple perspectives we recognized the need to evaluate the inter-coder alignment. Evaluation of the inter-coder alignment occurred in two ways. First, the coders met periodically throughout the coding process to discuss the inter-coder convergences and divergences of the code assignations. Second, we used the analytic functions of the Dedoose cross-platform application which allowed us to view the distribution, frequency, and co-occurrence of codes across coders.

Coding Procedures and Data Analysis

Our procedure for coding and analyzing the data from the eight study records included: (a) importing the a priori codes, definitions, and written texts into a cross-platform application called Dedoose; (b) employing the services of three coders; (c) immersion in the textual data and code assignation process; (d) inter-coder alignment checks; (e) analysis for thematic predominance and “keyness”; (f) interpretation and synthesis ( Braun and Clarke, 2006 ). Initially, we used a semantic method to code excerpts for literal content based upon the definitions for the a priori parent and child categories. “With a semantic approach, the themes are identified within the explicit or surface meanings of the data, and the analyst is not looking for anything beyond what a participant has said or what has been written” ( Braun and Clarke, 2006 , p. 84).

During the semantic analysis we identified the emergence of predominant categorical patterns of evidence from the a priori parent and child categories. We used Dedoose to explore the patterns of evidence and most frequently coded categories. The most frequently coded categories (Table 2 ) were then organized and aggregated with their a priori definitions. We then reviewed and organized the textual excerpts, explored the thematic content of the excerpts, examined co-occurrences of codes and inter-coder alignment, and then re-organized, revised, and collapsed the categories into new but related categories which became or data sets. These data sets were created according to the frequency and contextual predominance, co-occurrences, and textual meaning, resulting re-interpreted and integrated categories representing a merger of the extrinsic and intrinsic data.

TABLE 2. Preliminary data sets with a priori definitions.

From this point, it was natural to move from a semantic analysis into more interpretive work by exploring the latent content ( Braun and Clarke, 2006 ). Within this final interpretive phase we first re-named these new integrated data sets and their meanings which became the three primary themes and the related modifying and defining themes. Then we focused on exploring the relationship between the primary and modifying themes relative to the phenomenon of transformation. We used some arts-based methods (Figure 4 ) and diagrams (Figures 1 – 3 ) for the purposes of conceptualization, visualization, interpretation, and thematic synthesis. In exploring the relationships within and between the thematic constructs, we created dynamic interactive systems of change comprised of these transformative thematic phenomena (Figures 1 – 3 ).

FIGURE 1. Kinetic mobile system for dynamic change.

FIGURE 2. Figure/ground system for dynamic change.

FIGURE 3. Orbital system for dynamic change.

FIGURE 4. Art-based thematic initial conceptualization—dialectical rupture and resolution. Original in color. Created by primary author.

The results of our preliminary analysis yielded the identification of three primary themes modified and defined by interactive sub-themes related to transformational phenomena in the creative arts therapies. In this section we present the themes, define and describe each theme, present exemplars to amplify the meaning, and provide a summary synthesis of the thematic results as related to our research questions. As we present these results we re-emphasize the limitations of this analysis. The limitations became more apparent as we embarked on this project and realized that the scope, depth and breadth of our data might extend beyond the time and space constraints for this article. Our assessment of the data at this point in our analysis is that they are extremely rich and meaningful holding multiple implications for further research, theory building, and practice therefore requiring additional analysis.

Within those limitations, we identified several preliminary thematic patterns of evidence that were distributed throughout and across five of the original a prior i parent categories of arts-making processes and arts-based research, relationship, ruptures, intersubjectivity, and transformation . Within those predominant parent categories, the child categories or sub-themes that emerged included medium, mode and method, imagination flow and transcendence, intersubjective transcendence, sensory, kinesthetic embodied knowing, attunement/alignment, tension and dialectics, imaginal ruptures, relational ruptures, and dialectical rupture and resolution. These categories achieved primacy through both the frequency of occurrence and the relevant meaning or “keyness” to the inquiry. The “…‘keyness’ of a theme is not necessarily dependent on quantifiable measures, but rather on whether it captures something important in relation to the overall research question” ( Braun and Clarke, 2006 , p. 82).

The key categories were aligned with the original definitions (Table 2 ) and then these categories and their excerpts, selected across participants based upon their “keyness” to the inquiry, were analyzed for intersecting meanings, re-arranged and collapsed into data sets to form new integrated categories. These new integrated categories and their meanings were re-organized, collapsed, and rearranged to become the three primary themes and the related modifying and defining themes.

Primary Themes and Modifying Sub-Themes

Through our analysis we identified the following primary thematic phenomena along with their modifying and defining thematic constructs.

(1) Rupture, Resolution, and Transformation: Dialectical Rupture and Resolution, Relational Ruptures and Imaginational Ruptures;

(2) Relationship and Intersubjectivity: Relational Attunement, Dialectical tensions, Intersubjective transcendence

(3) Arts-based expression: Imaginational Flow/transcendence, sensory/kinesthetic/embodied levels of knowing, and intersubjective transcendence, medium mode and method.

Ruptures, Resolutions, and Transformation

Transformation is a major category and central focus for this study. The definition for transformation was the arousal of memories, re-activation of emotions, and levels of consciousness that mediate the new learning and insight through dialectical rupture and resolution ( Hayes et al., 2007 ; Israelstam, 2007 ; Zittoun, 2011 ; Lane et al., 2015 ; Van Lith, 2015 ; Czamanski-Cohen and Weihs, 2016 ). Furthermore transformation includes a “… significant reconfiguration of perception and thought resulting in the lessening of psychic restraint and pain allowing for the emergence of new psychological perspectives that contribute to living a more creative life” ( Gerber et al., 2012 , p. 45). This theme includes the most frequently cited category of dialectical rupture and resolution along with inter-related defining constructs of relational and imaginational ruptures.

Dialectical rupture and resolution was the most frequently coded defining theme describing key transformative actions and moments. This theme increased in the frequency of coding over time during the laboratory course (Table 3 ).

TABLE 3. Progressive thematic coding frequency over time.

Dialectical rupture and resolution is inter-connected to multiple dynamic processes including relational attunement, imaginational flow and transcendence, and intersubjective transcendence and their dialectical counterparts of imaginational and relational ruptures. The dialectic between these relational and imaginational attunements, flow, and ruptures represents contradictions and tensions between the drive for progressive innovation and discovery and the longing for familiar recalcitrance–the known and the unknown. These tensions create the conditions for a system of dynamic change through destabilization and de-construction, reflection, re-construction, and re-stabilization resulting in insight, illumination, psychic growth, and new personal and intersubjective narratives ( Israelstam, 2007 ; Zittoun, 2011 ; Forster et al., 2014 ).

Excerpts dialectical rupture and resolution

Ebbing and Flowing” addresses the natural fluctuations of life. Nothing stays the same – there is a constant flux. In our studio class we became aware of such dichotomies as death and life, distance and closeness, divorce and intimacy, facing a threat and running away from it.

In an attempt to understand my inherent tensions between consonance and dissonance, my ritual of staying in my learned comfort zone and the spontaneity of newness, and my holding onto of the familiar while letting go and growing, I wrote the following musical lyric:

Built up rattled nerves

Lay them flat on the ground, breath the sound in of dissonance

Buzzing flies around your ears

Play beginnings of life, stir the pot, pull the freedom near

It was through this lyrical writing where I helped myself reflect on my tension, embrace the different emotions I was feeling, and come to terms with this tension. I found that through the course, even though this dialectic existed and challenged me, I was more accepting of it as time passed. I understood that this dialectic would become present and the task would simply be adapting around or within it.

However, when we arrive at communal art making, we can face terrors, loss, and trauma and not be broken. We can experience sadness and anger and not fall down. Creating art together allows us to cope with the darkness, make meaning of our experiences, transform our existence, and find hope and peace. Through art we find resilience.

Relational ruptures are inextricably connected to the dynamic between relational attunement and dialectical tensions. The frequency of coding in this category increased over time during the laboratory course (Table 3 ).

Ruptures in the relationship are due to anxiety, fantasies about self/other, internal/external dialogs, and/or the breakdown in the relationship from disappointment and realization ( Knill, 2005 ; Israelstam, 2007 ; Gerber et al., 2012 ; Forster et al., 2014 ). The successful resolution of these ruptures necessarily occurs within an emotionally held or “dialectically attuned” ( Israelstam, 2007 , p. 592) relationship in which creativity is used to re-imagine, explore and resolve the dialectical relational tensions. This process is iterative, hopefully progressive and transformative, but exists along a precarious dialectical edge the navigation of which can lead to either creativity and illumination or destruction and devastation ( Israelstam, 2007 , p. 592).

Excerpts relational rupture

About half way into the class, we were both on the floor, one of my classmates began to tear up and appear visibly upset. At that time I was tending to myself and my own needs, calmly breathing, humming a little melody, and overall in a peaceful state. Her condition aroused an immediate response from me, first one of surprise and helplessness, followed by one to breathe and attune to her. I recognized her stooped position and the passive weight in her body. Suddenly, seemingly out of nowhere, a lightness overcame me and my hand approached hers with a playful, non-threatening movement. She responded and we were engaged in a time of short play…

The sunken and hollow body position in my peer (Day 2) confounded me and, while I slowed down my movements and attuned to her, it wasn’t until after everyone had worked their way through sadness that it finally hit me. It was inevitable that it would affect me but the way it did, superficially at first (possibly defending myself by setting boundaries?) with an intense delayed sensation of it, was unexpected.

The spiral of intersubjective relationships among the participants, and the participants’ use of space, represents dynamic changes. We are always positioning ourselves in relation to each other and always sensing where we are and how we are. For example “when we feel open and receptive, we tend to move toward others and reduce or dissolve our physical boundaries” or in comparison “when we feel threatened or in conflict, or there is no trust yet built, we retreat from others and shore up our physical boundaries against them” ( Dosamantes, 1992 , p. 9).

The triangle formation appeared while writing a song and moving in response to the lyrics, as a song and dance gave the participants a creative vehicle for representing the conflict that had appeared between the student-participants and their instructors.

An understanding and empathy for what others in the class were feeling existed, even if their feelings were in opposition of my own. This made it clear that our feelings were on a dialectic continuum within an intersubjective context.

Imaginational ruptures are dialectically related to imaginational flow and transcendence. These themes progressively increased in coding frequency over time during the laboratory course (Table 3 ).

Ruptures in imagination include sensory, embodied, emotional psychic processes that evoke memory and fantasy, cause disruption in states of consciousness, and flow, and collisions between fantasy and reality. Imaginational ruptures are transitions in levels of consciousness requiring relinquishment of control, suspension of familiarity, renouncement of mundanity, and interruptions of rigid modes of thought ( Bollas, 2002 ; Knill, 2005 ; Czamanski-Cohen and Weihs, 2016 ). Transitioning into the world of imagination is a dialectical and dynamic process creating tension between the real and imagined, the present and absent, and the known and unknown resulting in a conflict and resistance to the process ( Knill, 2005 ; Israelstam, 2007 ) and negotiation of a creative resolution. Imaginational ruptures and resolutions are considered to be central to achieving states of flow, transcendence, progressive and creative transformation necessary for insight and growth.

Excerpts imaginational ruptures

The artwork that I created in the initial classes represented the unknown, the muck. The ideas that formed were abstract and unclear. The images from these first classes were of the free flowing ink, and the muck, and the discussion that followed the classes reflected that other group members had a similar experience. It was an important stage because by allowing to freely explore the artistic media, clear symbols started to emerge. It was from the muck, if you wish, that the symbols of the tree and the bird grew.

As the heaviness lifted in the room, a Blues rhythm picked up and we all…engaged in a time of rhythmic movement and music making. I thoroughly enjoyed this and thought I could go on enjoying it when, unexpectedly, I no longer did.

An image of an incoming storm mirrored that experience for [Participant 1]. She wrote in her journal: “I can feel something coming up, taking form. The air is thick with anticipation of a storm. I feel like something is going to happen, resolve, open up, come together. What it is? I don’t know. How? I don’t know. But I can sense a certain tension and an anticipation of something.”

…Observed that while both music and movement evoked a response, they seemed to latch on to different facets of our emotions. This was most noticeable during my moving to Schubert’s “die liebe Farbe,” when movement allowed me to gain an auxiliary dimension of hurt, adding components of confusion and fragmentation.

Relationship and Intersubjectivity

Relationship and intersubjectivity includes the modifying and defining themes of relational attunement and dialectical tensions and intersubjective transcendence (cross referenced in the arts based expressive process theme). These themes progressively increased in coding frequency over time during the laboratory course (Table 3 ).

This theme refers to the attunement to others at the most fundamental emotional and unconscious level and joining in the co-creating, re-imagining, and transforming our personal and intersubjective narratives. The construction of these narratives includes the dialectic between various levels of trust/mistrust, distance and closeness, intimacy and alienation necessary for attunement to the most authentic, emotional, and fundamental of human experience and connection ( Knill, 2005 ; Stern, 2005 ; Brown, 2011 ; Zittoun, 2011 ; Schwartz, 2012 ).

Relational attunement and dialectical tensions emerge and co-exist in the intersubjective arts-based expressive experience and in combination are akin to relational ruptures. Relational attunement and dialectical tensions both increased in coding frequency over time during the laboratory course (Table 3 ).

Relational attunement includes alignment to the other’s emotional life and invisible psychic apparatus ( Bollas, 2002 ) using imagination to facilitate “… the opening of a creative reflective space in which positive transformation can occur” ( Israelstam, 2007 , p. 592). Relational dialectical tensions refer to the dialog between alignment and misalignment, the “me and the not me” creating corollary existential and psychological life/death experiences resulting in the tension necessary for rupture, reflection, new narratives and insight, and creative transformation. The combination of attunement and dialectical tension occurring within the potential space appears to be essential to the construction of authentic relational knowing and attachment.

Excerpts relational attunement

When we create art, all differences melt and become irrelevant. We come together and connect through art. Sometimes coming together may take a while, other times it seems effortless broadly define consonance not just in relation to musical terms, but with relevance to structure, aesthetic appeal, and a person’s inherent, natural tendency.

I tried to anticipate X and Y’s rhythms and movements, trying to stay connected through cognitive awareness…I became part of the movement, the rhythm. I followed, I lead, I existed, interconnected to sounds and feels and raw emotion. It was exhilarating and so calmingly beautiful in the same space.

… seeing an expressive movement, mirroring its essence and feeling a sensation; experiencing an emotion, then moving the body in congruence with it; hearing a musical piece, adjusting the movement to the nature of the music and having an emotional response. In short, the interrelatedness of movement and emotion was present throughout, no matter what initiated what.

Excerpt relationship dialectical tensions

In the same artistic experience, one of us could feel comfort and another could feel discomfort, and we somehow transitioned within and around this space as individuals as well as a group within the experience.

Alternately, dissonance is defined in opposition to these terms, being disorganized, different, and disconnected. Within the consonance and dissonance themes were subthemes of ritual and spontaneity (a dialectical term discussed in Israelstam’s, 2007 article), holding and growing, sameness and difference, and connected and disconnected.”

“The mutual awareness of agreement or disagreement and even the realization of such understanding or misunderstanding” ( Gillespie and Cornish, 2010 , p. 19).

What happened with me when I was moving, that I was reminded of two different types of responses to other people, also informed me of proxemics. It is now clear to me that distances between people differ according to relation (close-distant, personal-professional, or first time-know).

Arts Based Expression

The theme of arts-based expression represents the process of letting meaning emerge through a dynamic triadic relationship between participant/researcher, media/mode/method and the art making. This theme remained constant in coding frequency across time during the laboratory course (Table 3 ). The secondary themes in this category are the sensory/kinesthetic and embodied ways of knowing, imaginational flow and transcendence, and intersubjective transcendence.

The arts-based expression requires the immersion in creative process that makes thoughts visible using the media, modes, and methods of artistic expression ( Levine, 2005 ; Zittoun, 2011 ; Caddy et al., 2012 ; Haas-Cohen and Clyde Findlay, 2015 ; Czamanski-Cohen and Weihs, 2016 ). Immersion in the expressive arts process requires engagement in the dialectic between resistance, rupture, and resolution, surrendering to the imagination, and ultimately entering a transcendent state of consciousness and imaginative flow, acute relational attunement, and empathic intersubjective transcendence.

Sensory/kinesthetic/embodied ways of knowing, are primal unconscious forms of cognition that hold the artifacts of our earliest memories and stimulate emotional systems in the brain without the assignation of language. The arts experience uses sensory/kinesthetic/embodied and imaginal knowledge to transcend time retrieving the primal experience and replicating the original emotional response ( Bollas, 2002 ; Chilton et al., 2015 ; Czamanski-Cohen and Weihs, 2016 ). Just as in infancy, due to its primal nature, sensory/kinesthetic/embodied and imaginal knowledge creates acute relational attunement at the most fundamental emotional level. This theme remained constant over time with a slight decrease in the frequency coding over time in the laboratory course (Table 3 ).

Excerpts sensory/kinesthetic/embodied knowing

Initially the ocean drum and the swaying around me took me to a peaceful place, but over time the feeling shifted in the room. The movements slowed down, all DMTs were on the floor. Harmonies sung in a minor key, combined with the restricted movement and contracted body language around me evoked a state of deep, penetrating sadness. I found myself rocking, crying, remembering. This emotional state was hard to shake, even when I made physical changes (standing up, increasing energy).

Finding Resilience through Art” via movement. With my eyes closed there was little coping, however, as I opened them and began to create with my hands, first in a miniscule manner, but over time more and more elaborately, I was able to gain a new perspective and move outside of myself.

When I was dancing I noticed that my body takes different positions and shapes in space. I noticed that my movements varied. Once I was moving slowly, and other times quickly with more expression. Once I was using just parts of my body, in separation, and other times my whole body was moving. There were times that I was in a low position, and there were times that my body took shapes when I was standing or jumping. After a while, I still wasn’t sure what all of this meant to me, or if it had any meaning at all. I decided to move naturally for a while, warming up my body, as in preparation for deeper exploration.

Imaginational flow/transcendence relates the “desired level of consciousness attained once fully engaged in the arts process… [transcendent]beyond confines of physical world while allowing peripheral awareness of it…” promoting meditation, introspection, reflection, and empathy ( Gerber et al., 2012 , p. 44). Artistic levels of consciousness also refer to a state of imaginational flow bypassing thought rigidity and resulting in the “growth of new neuron networks” ( Caddy et al., 2012 , p. 328). Surrendering to the imaginational flow through free association and attunement to sensory embodied ways of knowing results in restoration of play, loss of time consciousness, transcendence beyond physical and mental strife, and expansion of the perception of possibility ( Knill, 2005 ; Van Lith, 2015 ).

This theme increased in coding frequency over time during the laboratory course (Table 3 ).

Excerpts imaginational flow/transcendence

I lay down on a floor stretching my mind to the limit of its extension to find answers. Themes, themes, themes… like I heard this world all over the place, all the time… I felt like I couldn’t find it. I felt stuck. How I am supposed to find it? I closed my eyes and my mind went somewhere far, far away. In my mind I was levitating over the mountains, rivers, seas, oceans and dessert. I felt relaxed and calm. My breath was stable and my heart beat pretty calm. I stayed there for a while, however, I lost control of time. I think I might have fallen asleep as at one point I felt cold, so cold that I curled up in the embryonic positions shaking and tensing my muscles. I still didn’t want to leave the floor it felt so supporting, however, the emerging cold made me move in a very uncomfortable way. I slowly began to twist, bend, writhe with a extremely bound muscle tension and without any direction. Just shaping my body through space and to adapt to the cold. Suddenly I hear this loud and annoying sound BZZZZZ and I stand up on straight legs. It was so unexpected as a quick unexpected frog coming out of a dark sleepy pool. Dark sleepy pool? Unexpected frog? I stopped myself for a while and wondered if I feel ok. Frog, pool, splash, unexpected… Yes! I have an idea.

Intersubjective transcendence describes the levels of consciousness attained using imagination and immersion in arts-based processes to transcend the physical boundaries of interpersonal separateness and enter the sensory, emotional, and imaginal world of “the other” enhancing attunement, understanding, and empathy ( Symington, 1996 ; Bollas, 2002 ; Gerber et al., 2012 ). This theme increased in coding frequency over time during the laboratory course (Table 3 ).

Excerpt intersubjective transcendence

Through my movement inquiry I noticed that true togetherness, a connecting of the hands, wiped away all the differences. Togetherness and connection in DMT is promoted through the therapist’s mirroring or reflecting of patients’ movement qualities. This results in an increased degree of somatic and emotional understanding as well as empathy.

At the beginning there was a sense of slowness, careful attention and intimate contact among the participants, and deeper exploration of individual problems, however, expressive movement was limited. Later during the session, expressive movement emerged and There was a sense of meditative and trance dance, in relation to expressive and meditative music.

Progressive Thematic Coding

In addition to analysis of the data thematically, we also wanted to explore how these thematic results emerged, sustained, developed, or diminished over time in the laboratory course. The progression of the themes over time was tracked by the frequency with which these thematic categories were coded in the study records from the introductory course (716) to the advanced course (719). Interestingly, all of these coded categories except for two, increased in the coded frequency over the progression of the course. Of particular note is the dramatic increase in the frequency that dialectical rupture and resolution was coded along with imaginational flow, relational attunement, relational and imaginational ruptures and tension and dialectics generally doubled in frequency. Medium mode and method in the arts-based expression category and sensory, kinesthetic and embodied knowledge remained the same over time with the latter dipping by just a few instances. Although there are numerous interpretations of this result, the distinct trends bear noting and further investigation (Table 3 ).

In summary, the primary thematic categories of ruptures, resolution, and transformation, relationship and intersubjectivity, and arts-based expression together with their modifying and defining themes, represent what may be transformative phenomena equivalents to mechanisms of change in the creative arts therapies. Due to the pluralistic intersubjective nature of reality and aesthetic knowledge in the creative arts therapies, these transformative phenomena are conceptualized as interactive dynamic systems of change in contrast to singular, linear, causal mechanisms of change. We have proposed several dynamic systems to illustrate how we envision these thematic phenomena interacting with one another to describe transformation (Figures 1 – 3 ) which are discussed in more detail in the Section “Discussion.”

In this preliminary phase of our research study, we have explored formative phenomena that, taken together, may be descriptive of the ways in which change occurs in the creative arts therapies. In this section we explore the dynamic interactive relationships between the primary and modifying themes and propose how these interactive phenomena might form a system of change. We also address the limitations of the study and how those limitations both elucidate the results and illuminate directions for future research. Finally, we recommend methods of evaluating these formative dynamic constructs of change in research, clinical practice, and the development of an evidence base for the creative arts therapies.

In interpreting the findings for this study, it is essential to re-emphasize that these findings represent a small but in depth sampling of data generated by student participant/researchers from a laboratory course simulating the creative arts therapies experience. Therefore, considering the interpretation and transferability of these constructs to theory building and clinical practice resides within and is limited by that context. With that said, we also may have to re-consider the hegemonic criteria, implicit in that statement, by which we typically evaluate research results. For instance, in this study a method for evaluating the results of this study have to more mindfully include a paradigm shift. In this paradigm shift it may be more useful and relevant to select arts-based or qualitative research evaluative criteria that are more aligned with the aesthetic intersubjective mental model ( Greene, 2007 ) or worldview of the creative arts therapies in contrast to a quantitative research reductive mindset more aligned with physical sciences. Within an aesthetic intersubjective mental model, the themes we identified represent phenomena that are dynamically and spatially inter-related presuming change as related to interaction as opposed to singularly static linear and causal constructs. Consequently, we are exploring the construction of meaning and change through kinetics, dynamics, inter-relatedness, and dialectics reflective of the ontological and epistemic nature of our fields and these thematic phenomena. Contextualized within these paradigmatic and methodological shifts we explore the dynamic systems of change created from these thematic phenomena, their implications for clinical and research theory and practice.

Dynamic Thematic Synthesis

The primary, modifying and defining themes identified in this study represent dynamic phenomena that dialectically adjoin and collide in the arts-based relational context descriptive of qualities of perceptual, emotional, relational, and behavioral experience contributing to change in the creative arts therapies. The primary interactive thematic constructs from our analysis are: (1) ruptures, resolutions, and transformation; (2) relationship and intersubjectivity; and, (3) arts-based expression. These primary thematic constructs are mediated by a dynamic and iterative interaction with the modifying and defining thematic phenomena of dialectical rupture and resolution, sensory/kinesthetic/embodied knowledge, imaginational flow/transcendence and rupture, relational attunement and dialectical tension, relational rupture and intersubjective transcendence . The dynamic interaction between these phenomena occurs in an arts-based expressive and intersubjective holding environment that can tolerate, emotionally regulate, and accommodate the creative and relational dialectical processes of contradiction, tension, and resolution necessary to promote change. We explore these dynamic constructs in more depth, examine different interactive configurations, and consider their relevance as a system of arts-based relational mechanisms of change.

Central to our discussion of mechanisms of change is the operational definition we used for transformation which was the arousal of memories, re-activation of emotions, and levels of consciousness that mediate new learning and insight through dialectical rupture and resolution ( Hayes et al., 2007 ; Israelstam, 2007 ; Zittoun, 2011 ; Lane et al., 2015 ; Van Lith, 2015 ; Czamanski-Cohen and Weihs, 2016 ). Furthermore, transformation is a “… significant reconfiguration of perception and thought resulting in the lessening of psychic restraint and pain allowing for the emergence of new psychological perspectives that contribute to living a more creative life” ( Gerber et al., 2012 , p. 45).

Within the literature and our data dialectical rupture and resolution was identified as one of our most predominant and overarching themes instrumental to transformation. Dialectical ruptures and resolutions are the pervasive ongoing and driving forces central to change, fueling creative, relational, and psychological growth from the friction between seeming contradictions in thought, belief, and experience. Typical dialectical tensions emerge from the existential anxieties and conflicts between the drive for progressive innovation and the gravitational longing for familiar recalcitrance–seeking the known from the unknown, creating something from nothing. In our study, the dialectical rupture and resolution process was mediated primarily by the dynamic interaction between relational attunement, imaginational flow, and intersubjective transcendence and their correlates of relational and imaginational ruptures. These tensions create the conditions for a system of dynamic change through iterative phases of destabilization and de-construction of pre-existing beliefs and narratives, re-construction of new narratives, and relationship re-stabilization resulting in new insight and illumination ( Israelstam, 2007 ; Zittoun, 2011 ; Forster et al., 2014 ).

Essential to the resolution and reparation of these dialectic tensions and ruptures are the interrelated thematic constructs of relationship and intersubjectivity and arts-based expression. In our study and, in the creative arts therapies and psychotherapy literature, the construction of a relationally attuned, emotionally held and responsive intersubjective culture is deemed essential for facilitation of surrender to and engagement in the arts-based expressive processes. Surrendering to the imagination, necessarily includes engagement in dialectic between resistance, rupture, and resolution ultimately allowing for the attainment of the transcendent state of imaginative flow, acute relational attunement, and intersubjective transcendence. Consequently, the intersubjective arts based expressive process juxtaposes imaginational flow and relational attunements and their correlate dialectic ruptures creating an ongoing transformative dialog necessary for resolution and change –jarring fixed and rigid beliefs that impede progressive expression, conceiving, re- imagining and birthing new systems of thought and perception, contributing to reparation, synthesis and transformation within a strong relational attuned emotionally holding environment.

Implicit in and central to these relational, arts-based, and intersubjective processes, is the invisible and influential role of sensory/kinesthetic/embodied knowledge and relational attunement. Sensory/kinesthetic/embodied modes of knowing and communication, originating from the beginning of life, create relational attunement at the most fundamental, poignant, and penetrating levels inaccessible through more traditional means of communication. Sensory/kinesthetic/embodied knowing within the relational or potential space contributes to the fluctuating levels of consciousness essential for imaginational flow and intersubjective transcendence ( Ogden, 1992 ; Hagman, 2005 ; Israelstam, 2007 ). This state of flow facilitates levels of consciousness that transcend the limitations of physical, temporal, and spatial boundaries enhancing interpersonal awareness and empathy and the basis for the construction of authentic emotional relationships that could both withstand and facilitate ongoing ruptures and resolutions.

We propose, therefore, that the dynamic interaction between these thematic phenomena in varying combinations and at varying strategic times, within the therapy and the therapeutic relationship, generates transformative responses. This is a preliminary study with formative qualitative evidence about these transformative phenomena. That evidence combined with the progressive frequency by which our categories were coded across time in the study posits some intriguing ideas and questions. In that finding all but two of the primary and modifying themes increased in the frequency by which they were coded over time (Table 3 ). Of particular interest is dramatic increase in the frequency of coding for the theme of dialectical rupture and resolution, within the overall theme of ruptures, resolutions and transformation, along with modifying themes of relational and imaginal ruptures. This increase along with the concomitant increases in relational attunement, intersubjective transcendence, and imaginational flow suggests that there is perhaps a dynamic interaction between these experiences that create the progressive conditions necessary for facile engagement in the dialectical rupture and resolution process essential for change. In other words, the interactive mechanisms or phenomena from the study progressively contribute to the creation of a relationally attuned intersubjective culture in which imagination, dialectical tensions, and arts-based expressive process develop over time and indeed might be contribute to change and transformation.

In considering the nature, meaning, relationship, and progression of these preliminary and formative interactive dynamic phenomena we revisit the concept of mechanisms of change. With regard to mechanisms of change and how change occurs in the creative arts therapies, we think that our findings necessitate a paradigm shift from a singular causal action to a dynamic interactive system between multiple human phenomena. In this paradigmatic shift and proposed model, in contrast to more traditional definitions and evaluation of mechanisms of change, the relationship of the mechanism and the outcome is not linear and measureable but rather dynamic, multi-dimensional, and descriptive.

Mechanisms of Change: Paradigmatic Considerations

A review of the nature and relationship of our thematic findings relative to the extant concepts of mechanisms of change suggests paradigmatic and methodological reconsiderations. Mechanistic research resides predominantly within a post-positivist paradigm in which a statistical and singular causal relationship is created between the mechanism, intervention, and the outcome as the explanation of how change occurs ( Kazdin and Nock, 2003 ; Kazdin, 2007 ). There are particular bodies of knowledge and domains of scientific research in which this approach is warranted resulting in valuable answers to specific questions. However, due to the nature of reality and forms of knowledge in the creative arts therapies, mechanisms of change may require reconsideration, redefinition, and reconfiguration. As described previously, in the creative arts therapies we deem reality to be pluralistic and intersubjectively co-constructed while the related forms of aesthetic knowledge are necessarily idiosyncratic, circuitous, dialectic, dynamic, and emergent. These basic philosophical differences contraindicate the use of linear models of change evaluation to accurately assess and understand the nature and process of change in the creative arts therapies ( Aigen, 1991 ; Hayes et al., 2007 ; Chilton et al., 2015 ; Archibald and Gerber, 2018 ).

Our contention is reflected in Collins and Sayer’s (as cited in Hayes et al., 2007 , p. 716) assertion that change in psychotherapy is a dynamic system which cannot rely upon more traditional linear methods of research to account for “intra-individual variability which traditionally has been viewed as ‘noise’ or error.” This paradigm shift allows for the inclusion of “dynamic and dialectic interactive process between these multiple intra/inter psychic and intersubjective realities” ( Gerber, 2016 , p. 656) representing the idiosyncratic vigor of pluralistic human phenomena and reliant upon “… the coexistence and dialectical tensions between levels of consciousness, temporality, and spatiality” ( Archibald and Gerber, 2018 , p. 3). This view allows for the creation of more interdependent, multi-dimensional mechanisms that are textural and descriptive rather than reductive and measurable. Such a paradigm “contributes to the development of a creative philosophical frame foundational for both an art[s] therapy theory as well as a research mentality and methodology the purpose of which is the generation of new knowledge ( Johnson and Gray, 2010 ; Johnson, 2015 ; Gerber, 2016 , p. 656).”

Dynamic Systems of Change

Based on our research findings and this suggested paradigm shift we might conceptualize mechanisms of change, within the creative arts therapies, as dynamic systems of relational, imaginative, and dialectical phenomena the interaction of which transforms perception, emotion, relationships, and behaviors. In conceptualizing and visualizing how our primary thematic phenomena jointly form systems of change, we arrived at a few preliminary proposals. We propose three dynamic systems of transformation in which the primary and modifying thematic phenomena are aligned in different configurations and dynamic relationships (Figures 1 – 3 ). The three systems might be named the kinetic mobile system, the figure/ground system, and the orbital system. Although similar these models do vary with regard to the juxtaposition and inter- relationship of each phenomena, the degree and type of movement and dynamic interaction between and amongst the phenomena, and consideration of the requisite balance between essential chaos and organization related to implications for dynamic change within the creative arts therapies.

Kinetic Mobile System

In the kinetic mobile system of dynamic transformation, the themes are conceptualized as shapes that are connected by bi-directional arrows or invisible hanging wires. Each shape is carefully positioned relative to its the other familial themes and each is considered to be of relative equal weight and size. In this system, all of the parts are in constant motion in relation to one another creating infinite combinations, within and beyond their familial themes, of interactive dynamic encounters, collisions, confrontations, ruptures and ultimately resolutions. The dialectical rupture and resolution shape and the arts-based expression shape are positioned at the top and bottom of the mobile since, although not conceived as linearly related, are often considered to be pivotal as both initiators and holders of change. Relational attunement is positioned as central to moderating between the arts based expressive process and the dialectical rupture and resolution. The kinetic mobile model is multi-dimensional allowing for both this strategic positioning but also the possibilities of infinite other unpredictable juxtapositions in a cycle of change so that each relational and imaginational rupture sets off a new relational, imaginational creative resolutions. In this system the dynamics are emergent, unpredictable and cyclical –at any point in this system the chain reaction will be initiated and move through various phases. This system perhaps most accurately reflects delicate balance between chaos and organization and the potential for destruction or creativity, that is central to the resolution of the inherent dialectical relational arts-based processes contributing to a systems of change in the creative arts therapies.

Figure/Ground System

The figure/ground system of dynamic transformation from our study re-configures the primary and modifying familial themes in terms of contextual or conditional phenomena as the necessary background or holding environment for the more dynamic interactive or moving parts in the foreground. In this model, the two primary themes of arts-based expression and relationship and intersubjectivity are viewed as more contextual conditions essential for the emergence of dialectical rupture and resolution which is, in the intermediary ground, conceived as pivotal to change relative to interaction with the other phenomena. The other phenomena, although grouped in their thematic families, are also conceptualized as active and interactive in and around each other and the contextual conditions. In this model, instead of all of the parts randomly moving there are some phenomena that are conceptualized as stabilizers or holders so that the other parts can freely move around. These factors are the arts-based, relationship and intersubjectivity phenomena which are generally considered to be the essential and constant environmental factors central to change in the creative arts therapies. However, it should be noted that these contextual phenomena include multiple kinetic phenomena that might, under differing conditions, influence the degree of stability or rupture thus effecting the dynamics of the whole system. Relative to our musings about the degree and interaction between chaos and organization, this model attempts to provide a more intentional equanimity and delicate balance between the variability and stability of the phenomena with the understanding that this balance can be disrupted at any moment and under any conditions.

Orbital System

In the orbital system all major thematic phenomena are compressed into larger inclusive categories and visualized as equal in size and proximity from each other orbiting around and mediated by a bi-directional center. In this system, as in the others, there are multiple pathways for these phenomena to interact and influence each other for the purpose of informing change but perhaps in this system the possible combinations are more limited. This system appears simpler and less chaotic with less moving parts and limited pathways of interaction. The question arises as to how the simplification, organization, and restriction of possibilities influences the dynamism of these systems of change. In this case we have to critically evaluate if order and simplification sacrifices the essential ontological and epistemic nature of the phenomena and the value of human experience necessary for change in the creative arts therapies. This is an important consideration as we move toward exploring the most authentic systems of change in creative arts therapies. This lead us into considering methods and approaches to evaluating these findings and emergent systems of change.

Of course, these are very preliminary ideas and conceptualizations ripe for further creative discourse and investigation. The additional creative development might benefit from both construction of three dimensional actual and arts-based models to further study the systems of interaction combined with elicitation and documentation of the experiences of actual humans to contribute to the more totalistic understand these transformative phenomena.

In proposing these dynamic systems of change, which are based both in our data and in psychotherapy and creative arts therapies theory and research, the questions arise as to how we would evaluate these dynamic systems as mechanisms of change; and, if they will contribute to our understanding of what change is and how it occurs in the creative arts therapies. Even though outside of the scope of this phase of the study, these questions warrant a momentary consideration relative to the implications for rigor, credibility, and epistemic authenticity in both research and clinical practice. Implicit in the paradigm shift from a post-positivist to a dialectical aesthetic intersubjective perspective ( Chilton et al., 2015 ; Johnson, 2015 ; Gerber, 2016 ) is the construction of methods to evaluate the nature, qualities, and dynamics of these phenomena individually and interactively using epistemically comparable modes of assessment.

In qualitative research and arts-based research there are approaches to evaluating credibility and authenticity of similarly regarded phenomena ( Barone and Eisner, 2012 ; Leavy, 2015 ). For instance, Barone and Eisner (2012) offer evaluative concepts for arts-based research such as incisiveness, concision, and evocation and illumination all of which relate to the aesthetic, emotional, intuitive, communicative, and relational qualities of arts-based expression while being mindful of rigor and authenticity. Perhaps there are parallel evaluative approaches using such concepts as applied to the evaluation of these phenomenological experiences in both research and clinical practices. Our evaluation processes would most likely consist of critical reflection and discourse, rich textural and textual description, and arts-based responses created and shared amongst participant/researchers and perhaps with an audience. Although these are just very preliminary and nascent ideas which require more thought and development it is necessary to begin thinking about them as we construct this dynamic system of transformative elements and consider ways in which we might understand their implications for research and clinical practice.

Limitations and Implications for Future Research

The results of this study are preliminary and naturally include multiple limitations that both relate to the findings but also illuminate new directions for future research. The limitations and implications for future research cohabit the same dialectical spaces and relate to the nature of the analog study, the diversity, distribution and number of records reviewed, the importance and impact of the multiple perspectives of the coders, the nature and clarity of the coding system, and the noticeable absence of references to the transferential relationships.

The first limitation relates to the analog data which was collected from a laboratory setting simulating conditions parallel to the creative arts therapies experience. Although this is a limitation, since it is not data from actual creative arts therapies treatment, it could also conceivably be a benefit. In this analogous laboratory setting, the participant/researchers still experienced and expressed a range of perceptual, emotional, imaginal, relational, and behavioral phenomena similar to those of an actual therapy session. Additionally, since the key informants were both creative arts therapists and doctoral student participant/researchers, they were accustomed to the psychological repercussions inherent in creative arts therapies encounter. Therefore, they were able to experience, tolerate, and observe the anxieties, uncertainties, frustrations, joys, insights, and resolutions of this parallel situation. In addition, they were also able to document, analyze, articulately describe, and represent their experiences using arts-based and textual methods. The limitation resides in the transferability of these findings to actual creative arts therapies sessions representing multiple disciplines, settings, and populations. Perhaps upon further investigation and refinement of the results these systems of transformation might be studied in varying treatment contexts.

The next limitation relates to the diversity, distribution, and number of records relative to understanding the nature and progression of transformative phenomena over time as well as across and within disciplines. We initially selected 16 study records but ultimately only used eight for this preliminary study. The use of fewer records was based on our decision to conduct this preliminary pilot phase of the study in which we could test and evaluate the coding system, the inter-coder alignment, and adjust both as necessary for the next study phase. The limitation of using the fewer records is that we did not get the distribution we would have liked across the different yearly cohorts, the course progression, and creative arts therapies disciplines. A more even distribution data across cohort and discipline would provide breadth and diversity in all patterns of evidence as well as an analysis of discipline specific patterns of data and progressive responses over time. We did retrieve some promising preliminary data relative to the increasing frequency and appearance of particular phenomena in the progressive courses over time which may be relevant to our study of transformation, however, these data require further exploration. One interesting finding from these progressive frequencies was, that in contrast to the increase in all thematic phenomena, the sensory/kinesthetic/embodied knowledge theme decreased ever so slightly. One interpretation of this change could be that the increase of relationship, intersubjectivity, consciousness and open communication in the group diminished the need for and prevalence of more unconscious modes of knowing and communication—imagination or fantasy about others is transformed into knowledge, creative and open expression. Of course, there are multiple other confounding factors that could explain this finding and require examination before we can affirm this postulation; but, it provides interesting musings for future research.

In reviewing, analyzing and reflecting upon the data for this study, we became acutely aware of an additional limitation as well as a potential source of rich data related to the diverse perspectives of students and instructors. In particular, we were interested in the hierarchical relational phenomena that are parallel and central to transformation within the therapeutic relationship in the creative arts therapies process. Of note is the fact that these data were retrieved from a course in which students have concerns about being evaluated by the instructors, therefore, openly addressing their experience of this relationship in their culminating assignments posed a significant risk. Within this context, it is not surprising that there was minimal explicit reference to the real or imagined relationship between the student participant/researchers and the faculty participant/researchers in the records we reviewed. The stunning absence of reference to this hierarchical relationship is relative to the challenges of articulating these transferential phenomena with their associated real, perceived, and imagined scenarios and implications in both the classroom and psychotherapy setting. Further exploration of the specific ways in which these hierarchical relational mechanisms interact with our dynamic systems of change is warranted.

There were two major limitations relative to the coding system. First the definitions were in some cases awkwardly worded and consequently challenging to interpret which may have influenced the inter-coder alignment. Although we had a relatively high occurrence of inter-coder alignment, fine tuning these definitions might strengthen that alignment and contribute to concision and accuracy. Second, there was significant overlap between some of the coding categories. Therefore, even though some codes were not used frequently or at all, elements of those codes were implicitly represented in other codes (e.g., the parent category of reflection not coded but reflection was central to the resolution of dialectical ruptures). To address this issue, using the results of the first phase of the study we can rework the definitions for purposes of clarity, elimination, or amplification of overlap. We also might want to conduct another review and coding using more of an inductive process to identify additional thematic trends emergent from the text for comparison to and integration with the deductive categories for a more comprehensive and authentic reflection of the data.

Finally, in continuing our investigation into these dynamic interactive systems of transformation we hope to develop methods to evaluate if and how people change relative to these powerful human relational, imaginative, and dialectical experiences within the creative arts therapies. Now that we have defined what we believe are formative transformative phenomena and dynamic interactive systems of change we can begin to involve more stakeholders in interviews, focus groups, and or analog laboratory experiences to explore the credibility and authenticity of these preliminary results.

The purpose of this study was to examine the dynamic and interactive factors that might be considered mechanisms of change in the creative arts therapies. We identified three primary thematic transformative phenomena of change with their interactive modifiers that acting in concert with each other form dynamic systems of change in the arts therapies. We suggest that dynamic systems of change are more relevant to the underlying epistemological and ontological foundations of the arts therapies than linear, causal and measureable mechanistic approaches. As we proceed into our next phase of the study we need to re-evaluate our coding categories and procedures, continue to develop inter-coder alignment protocols, critically evaluate the influence of the differing student/faculty perspectives, and expand on methods of evaluating the authenticity and credibility of these dynamic transformative systems.

Author Contributions

NG conceived, proposed, researched, and wrote the article. KB and NP did the coding for the study. KB and CB worked on the literature review.

Conflict of Interest Statement

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Acknowledgments

We would like to acknowledge and honor all of the creative courageous students who participated in generating data for this research study. They are all dedicated scholars and creative arts therapists committed to using innovative research methods to study and advance knowledge in their respective creative arts therapies field. These emerging scholars are the future of creative arts therapies so we applaud them and thank them.

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Keywords : mechanisms of change, transformation, psychotherapy, creative arts therapies, arts-based research

Citation: Gerber N, Bryl K, Potvin N and Blank CA (2018) Arts-Based Research Approaches to Studying Mechanisms of Change in the Creative Arts Therapies. Front. Psychol. 9:2076. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2018.02076

Received: 22 May 2018; Accepted: 09 October 2018; Published: 01 November 2018.

Reviewed by:

Copyright © 2018 Gerber, Bryl, Potvin and Blank. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY) . The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.

*Correspondence: Nancy Gerber, [email protected]

Disclaimer: All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article or claim that may be made by its manufacturer is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

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Research Art is Everywhere. But Some Artists Do It Better Than Others.

By Kavior Moon

Kavior Moon

Dozens of archival documents—showing text too small to read and vintage photos of white men—are pinned in a semi-ordered, semi-chaotic grid.

In the global south, labeling a research project "art" can be a tool for evading censorship, when does artistic research become fake news forensic architecture keeps dodging the question.

How did this come to be? On the institutional front, art schools have been establishing programs and centers for “artistic research” and “research-creation,” particularly in Canada and across Europe, for more than 20 years. In 1997 the Academy of Fine Arts in Helsinki established an early notable doctoral program for artists; two decades later, PhD degrees in art are available in multiple countries. Globally renowned curators such as Catherine David, Okwui Enwezor, Carolyn Christov-Bakargiev, and Ute Meta Bauer made their careers organizing large-scale international exhibitions often laden with research-based art and organized within a curatorial framework predicated on theory. Now, there are professional artists with research-based practices teaching their students various research methodologies and encouraging the production of yet more research-based works.

The current trend has an even longer historical trajectory when related to artists and their motivations. One might find traces in the work of Leonardo da Vinci or 17th-century naturalists such as Maria Sibylla Merian. Hito Steyerl, a contemporary research artist par excellence, describes the formal and semiotic investigations of Soviet avant-garde circles in the 1920s as formative for research art today. In her 2010 essay “Aesthetics of Resistance? Artistic Research as Discipline and Conflict,” Steyerl discusses authors, photographers, and self-proclaimed “factographers”—including Dziga Vertov, Sergei Tretyakov, Lyubov Popova, and Aleksandr Rodchenko—whose epistemological debates centered on terms such as “fact,” “reality,” and “objectivity.” From Constructivism, in which artists were redefined as designers, technicians, and engineers engaged in developing new approaches to constructing forms, emerged the program of Productivism and the associated method called “factography.”

Factographers aimed to chronicle and analyze modern life, particularly through texts, photography, and film. They did not claim to portray reality objectively and impartially (as opposed to conventional documentary makers) but rather to actively transform reality through ideological acts of signification, through new modes of production and collective reception. As Steyerl reminds us, “fact comes from [the Latin] facere , to make or to do.”

Another pivotal moment in the historical development of research-based art came with the conceptual turn in art in the 1960s and ’70s, particularly with the emergence of institutional critique. Moving away from formalist painting and sculpture, Conceptual artists contended that the idea or concept of an artwork (not its physical form) was the art. Texts, diagrams, photographs, and other forms of matter-of-fact documentation feature heavily in the works of Conceptual artists Joseph Kosuth, the Art & Language group, Mel Bochner, Hanne Darboven, and Christine Kozlov, among others. From this point of view, art can be seen as a transmission of “information,” the term curator Kynaston McShine used to title his landmark Conceptual art survey at the Museum of Modern Art in New York in 1970.

WITH ARTISTS INCLINED TOWARD INSTITUTIONAL CRITIQUE like Hans Haacke, one begins to see research not just informing the work of art but becoming an essential part of its content. A significant early example is Haacke’s Shapolsky et al. Manhattan Real Estate Holdings, A Real-Time Social System, as of May 1, 1971 (1971), which was made using extensive information that Haacke found in the New York County Clerk’s records. The work is simply a presentation of facts: it comprises 142 photographs of building facades and empty lots, maps of the Lower East Side and Harlem indicating each property’s location, and texts and charts detailing information about transfer of ownership, land value, and mortgage lenders.

With prolonged viewing, one notices that the many corporations that owned the properties were actually run by notorious landlord Harry J. Shapolsky and his relatives and associates, who bought, sold, and mortgaged the properties within their own real estate group. The shell corporations effectively obscured the properties’ ownership ties to the Shapolsky family as well as the tax advantages these inside deals conferred. One of the city’s biggest slumlords at the time, Shapolsky had previously been indicted for bribing building inspectors and convicted of rent-gouging.

For institutional critique artists, research became a key means to investigate and expose various social systems and the sociopolitical context of the art world. In doing so, the aim was to show how what we consider “art” is not timeless but in fact socially constructed, powerfully conditioned by the conventions and normalizing practices of art institutions. Haacke’s Shapolsky et al. was one of the reasons the artist’s major solo show at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum that year was famously canceled after then director Thomas Messer accused Haacke of “muckraking,” calling his work “extra-artistic” and a potential “alien presence” within the museum.

Although Haacke clearly made visible the machinery behind one of the most lucrative real estate operations in New York, the more fundamental threat, art historian Rosalyn Deutsche has pointed out, was how his work would have framed a series of slum properties against the museum’s pristine space, revealing it as a highly controlled space of material privilege. Deutsche persuasively argues that Haacke’s work implicitly raises questions about how proprietorial interests shape not only urban space but cultural spaces as well—a line of inquiry that Haacke and other institutional critique artists would develop in subsequent research-based works.

THE LAST MOMENTOUS SHIFT in the 20th century occurred around the 1980s and ’90s, as more and more artists used research to inform their works reflecting feminism, postcolonialism, queerness, and other forms of identity politics. An early example is Mary Kelly’s Post-Partum Document (1973–79), a six-part series that juxtaposes documentation of the artist’s experience as a new parent and the development of her son during the first six years of his life with research on the psychoanalytic theories of Jacques Lacan. A feminist critique of Conceptual art as well as Lacanian psychoanalysis, Post-Partum Document presents the mother-child relationship as an intersubjective exchange of signs between mother and child.

During these decades, artists often used archival materials or the form of the archive in their works, making research-based art to recuperate overlooked histories and marginalized figures or groups. In her landmark Import/Export Funk Office (1992–93), Renée Green presented books, magazines, photographs, cassette tapes, videotaped interviews, and other source materials taken from both her library and that of German cultural critic Diedrich Diederichsen, creating an extensive audiovisual archive of international hip-hop and African diasporic culture in the United States and Germany. Hal Foster termed this tendency “an archival impulse,” looking at the works of Tacita Dean, Sam Durant, and Thomas Hirschhorn.

Another artistic approach entails questioning the authority and authenticity of archives by pointing out their inherent biases. Between 1989 and 2004, Walid Raad developed a collection of both found and fabricated materials—documents, notebooks, photographs, news clippings, interview transcripts, and videos—related to the Lebanese Civil War (1975–91). His archival displays, presented under the guise of an imaginary foundation named “The Atlas Group,” blend fact and fiction to deconstruct the truth claims of documentary media, and bespeak distrust of official narratives, while also exploring the links between history, memory, trauma, and fantasy.

ONE CAN SEE a variety of research-based approaches in the practices of numerous artists today, applied with varying degrees of success. Some critics have voiced skepticism of much research-based art currently in vogue. In a 2019 lecture at the Kunsthalle Wien, Claire Bishop decried many research-based artworks as “information overload” and mere “aggregation” without hierarchy or narrative in ways that are symptomatic of our “browsing” habits in the internet age.

While a number of artists have used research as a crucial component in large-scale works—Steyerl in her immersive installations, Hirschhorn in his sprawling “monuments” to various critical theorists—others favor a more understated mode: pared-back, subtle, and visually economical. These artists often start by researching objects, ideas, events, or sites, and pair their installations with detailed supplemental texts that make one reconsider the presented materials in light of what can’t immediately be seen, often intangible issues of historical context, social injustice, and the law.

Maria Eichhorn, a second-generation institutional critique artist, bridges that now-established approach with the practices of younger research-based artists. For the 1997 edition of Skulptur Projekte Münster, she used the production fee she received to purchase a plot of land near the center of the show’s host city. Declaring the vacant lot a public sculpture, she titled her project Acquisition of a plot, Tibusstraße, corner of Breul, communal district of Münster, plot 5, drawing attention to the site’s recent history: years prior, residents had mobilized to stop the building of luxury condominiums there, and formed a tenants association to protect the availability of affordable housing.

Eichhorn exhibited a copy of the plot’s purchase contract and deed in the Landesmuseum, alongside a booklet detailing her research into the origins of cities in Europe, the historical establishment of land registers and real property, and the problem of affordable housing in present-day Munster. Instead of installing a piece of decorative “plop art,” Eichhorn prompted visitors to reflect on the economic and social realities of everyday urban spaces and the conflict of public and private interests. At the end of the exhibition, the artist sold the plot back to the city and donated its resale value to the area’s tenants association.

More recently, Eichhorn has focused on goods unlawfully obtained by the German state. For her 2003 exhibition “Politics of Restitution” at the Lenbachhaus in Munich, she worked with historian Anja Heuss to research the provenance of 15 paintings in the Lenbachhaus’s art collection on permanent loan from the Federal Republic of Germany. After World War II and until 1962, the Allies sought to return art objects stolen by the Nazis; after that, the remaining 20,000 or so unclaimed items were declared state property. Heuss determined that 7 of the 15 paintings were likely stolen or forcibly taken from their Jewish owners. Eichhorn displayed these paintings so as to reveal the markings on the reverse that document how they changed hands over time. She also exhibited another painting in the Lenbachhaus’s collection that was formally restituted just a year earlier to the heirs of its original Jewish owner.

Chronicling how these paintings got to where they are begs a follow-up question: what other objects currently in public collections were wrongfully taken by the state? Eichhorn’s 2017 Documenta project built on her work at Lenbachhaus, but dealt more actively with restitution. In Kassel, she created a project called “The Rose Valland Institute,” to investigate the looting of all forms of Jewish-owned property, not just artworks, since 1933. Her multiroom installation centered around a towering shelf filled with books from the main public library in Berlin. A wall text claimed that the nearly 2,000 volumes on view were once owned by Jewish persons and unlawfully acquired by the municipal library in 1943. Eichhorn also displayed photos, auction records, inventory lists, and other documents related to the confiscation of Jewish-owned assets, artworks, books, and other material possessions, as well as a reference library of publications on these issues.

Viewers also learned from accompanying texts that the Rose Valland Institute is an actual functioning organization, based in the Neue Galerie in Kassel for the run of the exhibition (and now in Berlin), whose mission is to return the looted items to their rightful owners or their descendants. Eichhorn’s project provokes viewers to actively question how objects in the country’s public collections were acquired, and to make their own restitution claims or provide other pertinent information.

Like Eichhorn, Cameron Rowland displays found objects accompanied by detailed handouts that elucidate the dark histories the objects index. Rowland’s work often addresses racialized exploitation and its ongoing effects, such as a piece titled Assessment (2018) that comprises an 18th-century English grandfather clock once housed at a plantation in South Carolina, and three 19th-century receipts that show property taxes were collected on slaves, clocks, and livestock alike in slaveholding states.

At the Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles, Rowland displayed Assessment alongside used everyday objects—leaf blowers, a hedge trimmer, a stroller, and bicycles—placed casually around the gallery. These items were purchased at police auctions of goods taken through civil asset forfeiture, a legal proceeding in which law enforcement can seize without warrant property believed to be connected to illegal activity. Originating in the English Navigation Act of 1660 to maintain England’s monopoly on trade with its colonies and West Africa, civil asset forfeiture has since thrived in the United States. Today, it is practiced by police departments as well as federal agencies including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Astoundingly, Rowland notes in their text that in 2013, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, an agency under DHS, contributed $1 billion in seized property to the Treasury Forfeiture Fund.

Just as property taxes on slaves were used to fund state governments in the antebellum South, auction sales from civil asset forfeiture are used to fund the agencies that seize properties. Together, the objects in Rowland’s show link issues of property concerning enslaved and undocumented people to highlight the dispossession and profiteering that results when groups of people are denied the protections of citizenship.

Where Eichhorn has focused on restitution, Rowland spotlights reparations. For Disgorgement (2016), part of an exhibition at Artists Space in New York, Rowland established an entity called the Reparations Purpose Trust, evidenced by framed legal documents on view there. Through this trust, they purchased shares of the insurance company Aetna, Inc., which had once profited from issuing insurance policies on the lives of slaves to slaveowners. The trust is to hold these company shares until the US government passes a law to make financial reparations for slavery, at which point the trust will dissolve and give its shares to the federal agency responsible for making the payments.

Where Rowland has focused on reparations, Gala Porras-Kim proposes mediation as a form of redress. In her project “Precipitation for an Arid Landscape” (2022), first presented at Amant in Brooklyn, she displayed works centered on Maya objects collected by the Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology at Harvard University. In several large drawings, collectively titled “Offerings for the Rain at the Peabody Museum,” she depicts objects found in the Chichén Itzá cenote, a sacred Maya sinkhole in Mexico. These objects were originally deposited as offerings to Chaac, the Maya god of rain, lightning, and thunder, but between 1904 and 1911, the American diplomat and archaeologist Edward H. Thompson dredged them up.

A circular enclosure in the center of the gallery displayed photographs, documents, letters, newspaper clippings, and other publications from the Peabody archives and elsewhere, enabling viewers to learn about the troubling circumstances that brought the objects into the museum. Thompson purchased property around the cenote in order to access it before smuggling the artifacts into the US; an 1897 Mexican law made exporting antiquities illegal.

In a framed letter to the Peabody Museum’s director, part of a work titled Mediating with the Rain (2021–), Porras-Kim points out that the desiccated condition of the Chaac objects is at odds with their intended wet state. The objects were meant to remain in the cenote, where they had been preserved in water. Exposure to air and the excessive dryness of the museum’s climate-controlled storage rooms have permanently changed their physical composition. Now, she notes, the objects are “just dust particles held together through conservation methods.” Porras-Kim suggests opening a dialogue on how the objects could at least regain what she calls their “dignitary interests” and thus be spiritually restituted in some form. One idea she has proposed is to designate the objects as owned by the rain and “on loan” to the museum.

In combining artistic research and institutional critique, artists like Porras-Kim and the others surveyed here are critically interrogating the institutions thought to be arbiters of authority. In other words, they are researching research to question the norms of knowledge production and to challenge the status quo. Rather than conducting investigations in order to present conclusive results, they unsettle and expand how we can see the world with all its inglorious pasts.

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Art Research Paper Topics

25 May, 2022

14 minutes read

Author: Elizabeth Brown

Students obtaining degrees in fine art and art & design programs most commonly need to write a paper on art topics. However, this subject is becoming more popular in educational institutions for expanding students’ horizons. Thus, both groups of receivers of education: those who are into arts and those who only get acquainted with art […]

At first glance, art seems an extensive subject with many aspects to investigate. But sometimes, it’s overwhelming to understand and contextualize art epochs, movements, and representatives in their art history research paper. It is challenging to sort out what art research paper topics are worth investigating. Writing about art and especially finding the appropriate art research topics is more complicated than making art.

Therefore, in this article, you will explore compelling ideas for your future art research paper topics. Move on and get inspired to create a unique research theme that will bring you academic success.

Choosing the Right Art Research Paper Topics

You can find an abundance of art research paper topics on the internet, but it’s not guaranteed they are good for you. There are certain things to consider before choosing the art paper theme and start working on it. Take a look at tips on how to select the best art history research paper topic and compile a high-quality study.

Select the Art Category

People have been creating aesthetic objects and experiences and sharing their masterpieces for centuries. There are traditionally distinguished seven branches of art, including literature, music, architecture, the graphic arts, the visual arts, the plastic arts, the decorative arts, and the performing arts. So before browsing art topics, choose the art branch you will further research.

Decide What to Study

Sound art research topics do not cover everything in one paper. It’s necessary to define what art aspect will be subjected to research in the study. Students can select an artistic movement like romanticism, realism, baroque, classicism, or surrealism for the most interesting art topics. It’s also possible to research an art epoch, a prominent artist, or a piece of art.

Brainstorm Ideas

For choosing the best theme of possible art research paper topics, come up with ideas and do prior research. Find out what is relevant to cover for today, what has not been investigated thoroughly, whether there are enough sources for references, and if the art research paper theme you want to explore corresponds to your course plan and instructions.

What Are the Most Engaging Art Topics

Every art movement and period has outstanding representatives and fascinating artworks worth exploring. Your art history research paper will be interesting once you like what you do and can present it clearly to the readers. Art seems complex, but if you are well aware of the subject, you can do compelling research on different art topics. Students with no experience in writing art research papers can get inspiration from the list of the most engrossing art topics.

So you can write about using art as propaganda and what messages hide in artworks or sequential art. Deciding what you are absorbing art research paper topics is up to you as it’s only you who can engage the audience.

Artist Bibliography Art Topics

If you are not well knowledgeable about art and want to make a high-quality art research paper, this topic is right for you. You can choose the artist whose works attract you the most and tell in your research about their life and becoming an artist. Students are free to choose art topics on influential art representatives or unknown craters with engaging bibliography.

In order to make your art history research paper not simply listing pieces of artworks of a specific author, you should focus on investigating a distinct feature of these works. Thus, your history research paper topics may touch upon sensual creations by Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Parisian life in Edgar Degas’s works, or the influence of celebrities on Andy Warhol’s art.

Art History Research Paper Topics

Writing an art history research paper is a great choice for students not willing to dive into art symbols and details. With a variety of art history research paper topics, you can easily find the best option or create your own theme. Students can benefit from numerous studies and literature sources to do original research. So potential art research paper topics focus on Ancient Egyptian Art, Greek Art, Christian Roman Art, Celtic Art, or Modern Art.

The ideas for your history research paper topics include defining similarities and differences between art styles at a specific time in the history of art development. It’s possible to research the influence of beauty, wars, and historical events on ancient and modern art.

Provocative Art Research Paper Topics at Different Periods

Every art epoch has introduced something new to art history and shaped the development of modern art movements. There are many decent artworks that activate thinking and aim at solving some problems. You can contemplate these masterpieces and their creators in thought-provoking art research paper topics. Touch in your art research paper on specific periods in art development.

Contemporary art topics are considered the most provocative as tragic global events and revolutionary personalities transformed the perception of the world and art. So here, we will focus on art research topics of the last three centuries.

Papers on the 18th-Century Art

The 18th-century history research paper topics are predominantly characterized by the shift to Rococo and Neoclassicism. This century was marked by revolutions, archaeological discoveries, industrial changes, and the era of Enlightenment. So the 18th-century art research topics feature great masterpieces and new ideas. Artists mix classical elements with brand new genres generating impressive pieces of art.

You can feature in your art research paper prominent artists of that epoch, including Filippo Juvarra, Luigi Vanvitelli, Jacques-Louis David, and Antonio Canova. It will also be a great idea for art topics to analyze their creations paying attention to preserving classical traditions, mythological subjects, urban views, landscapes, revolution scenes, etc.

Papers on the 19th-Century Art

Modern art developed in the 19th century due to the successful industrial revolution, social movements, Marxism, and feminism. The history research paper topics on the art of that century can cover artistic styles. Tell in your art research paper about Romanticism, Neoclassicism, Realism, Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, and Art Nouveau, all developed in the 19th.

Each style has its prominent artists whose masterpieces deserve research. Cover provocative works by Édouard Manet in your 19th-century art research paper. In your art research paper topics you can touch upon Francisco de Goya, Henri Rousseau, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Vincent van Gogh, Paul Gauguin, and others.

Papers on the 20th-Century Art

The 20th-century ideas for art research paper topics are multiple and diverse due to the emergence of artistic movements and global changes. You can tell a lot in an art research paper about Abstract Expressionism, Cubism, Pop Art, Fauvism, Minimalism, Futurism, Dada, Surrealism, Conceptual Art, and Photorealism. Among thought-provoking artists of that time we can name Stanley Kubrick, Dan Flavin, Joseph Beuys, Jacques Duval-Brasseur, Ellsworth Kelly, and Jasper Johns.

The history research paper topics can cover how contemporary art rejects traditional aesthetic values, experimenting with forms, materials, techniques, and processes. Win-win ideas for art research topics are to take a fresh look at Kazimir Malevich’s Black Square or Salvador Dalí’s Metamorphosis of Narcissus.

Major Eras in the Arts

The history of art started dozens of thousands of years ago. Each art period is complex and has many to tell about, lasting from 30 to 300 years. In their art research paper, a student can focus on the art epoch of their interest and research its development, features, artists, and creations. The Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Classicism, Romanticism, Realism, Cubism, Symbolism, Expressionism, and other art eras can find their place in students’ art research paper topics.

Let’s find major art epochs and their brief descriptions you can inspire from for your art research paper.

Flamboyant Baroque

Writing an art research paper on the Baroque era (1590-1760) is an engaging endeavor that will make you dive into the magnificent world of princes and kings. Your Baroque art research paper topics may refer to man as the central power. Students can explore in history research paper topics the role of opposites: light and dark, warm and cold, good and evil in that era. Art was a way to show power and wealth, so investigate this aspect in art research topics.

Sensual Romanticism

Your art research paper on romanticism may be focused on the emotiveness and sublime imagery of the art era. Romanticism (1790-1850) art research paper topics should highlight the role of nature and subconsciousness in masterpieces of that time. Students can choose art research topics that explore influential German, English, and French painters of the Romanticism period. They interpreted the world differently and wanted to oppose the stern nature of classicism.

You can study romanticism literature and music in your history research paper topics.

Fleeting Impressionism

In the art research paper devoted to the Impressionist era of modern art, it’s possible to research the phenomenon of art for art’s sake. Impressionism mostly manifested itself in painting due to prominent artists like Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Vincent van Gough. Impressionism (1850-1895) art research paper topics can be dedicated to music and ballet. There’s much to investigate in history research paper topics, so choose the art category, your favorite artist, and their impressive masterpieces.

Research Topics on Various Cultures

Art and culture are tightly interconnected as every culture develops its unique art forms. Thus, your art research paper may feature Aboriginal, Aztec, China, African, Indian, and Japanese cultures. Students can analyze in their art research topics how these cultures influenced art development. The interesting art topics focus on the investigation of the role of cultural identity on art creation. For example, you can feature Japanese calligraphy, traditional Chinese clothing, Indian cinema, African tribal art, and more in your art research paper topics.

Research Topics on the Art of Photography

Photography is a fascinating art category for your art research paper. This type of visual art appeared back in the 19th century and still amazes people today. In your art history research paper, you can explore the role of photography in history, art, and everyday life. Researchers can investigate how digital technologies popularized photography.

Students can research the most prominent photographers of all times like Richard Avedon, Robert Frank, and Man Ray and their creations in art research topics. It’s possible to research street, war, nature, and portrait photography. A creative idea for art research paper topics is exploring the psychological dimension of the art of photography.

Research Topics on Art Therapy

Art therapy is one of the most interesting art topics for investigation. It is possible to study the origin and applications of art therapy in the art history research paper. In their art research paper, a student can focus on how art therapy helps overcome various diseases and improve mental health. You can write an art research paper on the healing power of color and music.

Also, research what pieces of art prove to be the most effective in helping people with disabilities, psychological traumas, or autism. Students can touch upon prominent art therapists and their achievements.

How Our Paper Writing Service Can Help You

Students resort to essay writer assistance for many reasons, and the writing service’s market suggests many options to choose from. At our company, we provide professional academic writing services of different types on any topic you need and meet strict deadlines. Our team of certified authors can create a unique art research paper on any theme you need.

Writers have degrees in Fine Arts and Art & Design programs, ensuring high-quality art history research paper works. Contact us if the deadline for your art research paper is approaching and you do not know what topic to choose and what to start from. We will help you write an impressive paper and get an excellent mark!

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Due to human nature, we draw conclusions only when life gives us a lesson since the experience of others is not so effective and powerful. Therefore, when analyzing and sorting out common problems we face, we may trace a parallel with well-known book characters or real historical figures. Moreover, we often compare our situations with […]

Ethical Research Paper Topics

Writing a research paper on ethics is not an easy task, especially if you do not possess excellent writing skills and do not like to contemplate controversial questions. But an ethics course is obligatory in all higher education institutions, and students have to look for a way out and be creative. When you find an […]

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A List of Unique Art Research Paper Topics

Art is an exciting field of study, and research in this area is fun to do. We have identified the different areas and the possible topics you can research on. Art is a broad area of study but choosing a topic is not as difficult as you think. With the right guide, you can find interesting topics for your thesis. We have some tips to get you on the right path. We also provide you with some tips on how to choose a research topic in the arts.

How to Choose the Right Art Topic

Choosing a project topic in arts requires careful thought. To make things easier for you, we have noted some areas to consider before picking a research topic.

· Consider Your Interest

Art is a field of study that emphasizes creativity. It is a field that will require you to bring your creativity to bear. What happens if you search your mind and nothing comes out?

This problem can happen if you do not have an interest in the area. Even if you can come up with something, the ideas will not flow if you write about your area of interest.

There are areas of difficulty in every research, but you will be more inclined to find working solutions if it is your area of interest. If you are working on your area of study, you will be better attuned to the research. It also helps the overall look of your research. Your enthusiasm is essential in every project work.

· Access to Material

Before you decide to take on a topic for research in arts, you should consider the availability of materials and your access to them. Materials may be available, but you may not have access to them.

Essential questions to ask are, are there materials on this topic? Have books been published in this area? Are there articles online on this topic? You may also want to check if your school library has materials on the topic.

Then you have to ask if you have access to these materials. Can you download the material online? Or read them online? Are the books available for sale? If you answer yes, then you are good to go.

· Identify a Gap

Research is called so because someone else has researched that area before. So, what you are doing is a “re-search.” However, previous research could not have covered every aspect of that field or topic. Therefore, you have to identify that gap and fill it.

Without proper research, you will not come up with a viable topic. In academics, you do not have to repeat what someone has done already.

Expert Consulting for Art Research Paper Topics

Looking to excel in your art research paper? Our professional dissertation consultant is here to support you. With their expertise in the field of art, they can provide personalized guidance and advice on selecting engaging topics, conducting thorough research, and crafting a compelling art research paper. Benefit from the knowledge and experience of our dissertation consultants to enhance the quality and impact of your work. Contact us today to unlock the full potential of your art research paper with our expert consulting services.

Modern Art Topics

Themes in 21 st century paintings
Themes in 20 th century paintings
The new media and arts
Filmography in the 21 st century
Emerging forms in modern arts
Modern art as a viable tool for activism
Impact of technology on modern arts
Themes in modern poetry
What is the influence of feminism on modern art?
Gendered roles in modern arts

Media Art History Research Paper Topics

Art development and the media
Dynamics of art produced using the media
Globalization, digital art, and emerging discusses
Globalization, electronic art, and activism
Literature and the new media
Poetic rendition in the new media
The impact of digital technologies on art
Advertising in the 21 st century
Filmic art in the 21 st century
Computer games as art

Pop Art Research Paper Topics

Comic books as tools for social criticism
Advertising and sublimation: a study of the human psyche
Pop art as a platform for activism
Popular pop artists in the 21 st century
Thematic and stylistic trends in pop art
Technology and ethics in pop art
Pop art as high and low art
Pop art as an economy booster
Principles of pop art
Interaction and connection between pop art and other art forms

Visual Art Research Topics

Painting as pedagogy
Sculpture in the modern age
The creative works of popular artists
Aesthetics of painting: a study of an artist’s creations
A comparison of style of different artists
Trends in photography in different generations
Impact of technology on visual art
Socioeconomic impact of animation
Impact of visual art on culture
Visual art and feminism

Art Therapy Research Paper Topics

The interworking of therapy and art
The use of art for therapeutic effects
Technological approaches to art therapy
The use of virtual reality in art therapy
Theories of art therapy
Dance therapy for the treatment of anxiety
Color therapy for children with learning disabilities
Music as therapy for depression
The evolution of art therapy

Art History Research Paper Topics

Impact of the industrial revolution on art
Themes and styles of painting in the 20 th and 21 st centuries
Aesthetics and styles in Francisco de Goya’s works
The place of art in human civilization
A comparison of the work of two prominent painters
Themes and styles of music in the 20 th and 21 st centuries
Influence of ancient philosophers on art
The aesthetics and style of Michelangelo’s works
The place of erotica in the arts
History of paintings in different cultures

Ancient Art History Research Paper Topics

Art forms and styles in Greece
Compare the artworks of different artists
Biblical motives in the works of Leonardo da Vinci
Early African arts and history
The history behind early roman arts
Chinese arts and lifestyle before the 21 st century
Ancient Egyptian arts and lifestyle
History of the pyramid of Egypt
The contribution of the Greek theatre to dramatic arts
Early arts and religion

Classical Greek Art Research Paper Topic

Classical Greek art-related topics for a research paper is an intelligent choice. There are several areas you can focus on including:

The different styles of Greeks pottery
Myths in classical Greek sculpture
Aesthetics and style of Greek architecture
Compare the works of legendary sculptors
Impact of religion on Greek artworks
Compare ancient Greek art with the present
The influence of science in Greek arts
Styles of Phidias sculptor
Imagery and symbolism in classical Greek arts
Relationship between classical Greek arts and Greece lifestyle

Renaissance Art Topics

A comparison of renaissance art in different parts of Europe
What was the influence of renaissance art on man’s worldview?
How is renaissance art different from those of the medieval age?
What are the aesthetics of the art of the time?
How is the nobility of man portrayed in the art forms of the age?
How was the renaissance a revival of classical Roman and Greek art?
What are the forms and styles of renaissance art?
History, evolution, and preservation of renaissance arts
How do the renaissance arts portray humanism and individualism?
What are the theories of renaissance art?

20th Century Research Paper Topics Art History

Specific museum and its art collection
Harlem renaissance as a springboard for art activism
Aesthetics and styles of Pablo Picasso’s arts
Influence of Jackson Pollock’s arts
Influence of religion and science on the 20 th century arts
Compare earlier art styles with those of the 20 th century
Artistic movements in the 20 th century
Political cartoons and their influence in 20 th century politics
Influence of earlier art style on 20 th art styles
The prominent art movement of the 20 th century

Great Thai Art Topic for a Research Paper

The culture and artistic heritage of Thailand
Influence of religion on Thai arts
Representation of Thai social life in Thai arts
Folk heritage of Thailand
Aesthetic and stylistic import of Thai arts
Ancient and prehistoric art forms
A diachronic study of Thai arts from prehistoric times to the present
Signs and symbols in Thai arts
The influence of globalization on contemporary Thai arts
Messages in line, color, and space in Thai art.

Medieval Art History Research Paper Topics

Aesthetics and style of Raphael’s paintings
Religious and non-religious art forms that originated from the time
The evolution and sustenance of art forms
Compare the artworks of Michelangelo and Raphael
History of renaissance arts
Symbols and motif in medieval paintings
Religious motifs in Leonardo de Vinci’s paintings
Aesthetics and styles of Byzantine art style
Evolution of early Christian arts,
Elements of Gothic arts

Mexican Revolutionary Art Research Paper Topics

Impact of the Mexican revolution on Mexican lifestyle
History and effects of revolutionary arts
Compare the artworks of Frida Kahlo, Diego, Rivera
Surrealism in Mexican arts
Mural paintings during the Mexican revolution
The place of arts in Mexican revolution
Different phases of the Mexican revolution and the artworks created during that time
Impact of the Mexican revolution on people’s perception of art
Compare Mexican revolutionary arts with those created after the revolution
Aesthetics and style of David Alfaro Siqueiros’s artworks

Argumentative Art Topics

Some art research paper topics in these areas include:

The most significant artwork in the 20th century
Is graffiti art or vandalism?
Which city has the most remarkable art history and why?
The relevance of medieval art in contemporary times
How has the museum preserved art culture and enthusiasm
Modern pop culture does not measure up to earlier times. Argue for or against
Do ethics limit art?
Has technology limited creativity in art?
Is the role of the artist in society relevant?
Do cartoons fuel or mediate in political issues?

Good South East Asia Art Topics for a Research Paper

Asia is a place of high artistic creations. Discuss
Compare ancient and contemporary Asian arts
History of calligraphy arts in East Asia
What is the philosophy behind ancient artistic creations of different ages?
The evolution of Bollywood
How does Chinese circus art reflect the Chinese tradition?
Jewelry styles and meaning in India
Aesthetics and styles in Japanese calligraphy art
Religious relevance of art in south India
The evolution of pop culture in India

Researches in art are not difficult if taken the right way. With this guide, picking an area of study and identifying the gap is not tedious. We have helped you out in this regard with the information provided above.

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Art History Research Paper Topics

Dive into the vibrant world of art history research paper topics through this meticulously curated guide, tailored for students immersed in studying history and tasked with crafting a research paper. The guide commences with a comprehensive list of 100 intriguing topics, segmented into ten well-defined categories, serving as an invaluable source of inspiration. Further guidance on how to select an art history research paper topic is provided, along with practical insights into the crafting of an exceptional art history research paper. The guide transitions into presenting the specialized writing services offered by iResearchNet, enabling students to commission custom art history research papers on any chosen topic.

100 Art History Research Paper Topics

Art history, as a field of study, covers thousands of years and countless cultures, offering an expansive array of topics for research papers. When embarking on an art history project, you can focus on certain eras, explore individual artists or art movements, investigate the role of art in specific cultures, or delve into the meanings behind specific pieces or collections. Below, we present a comprehensive list of art history research paper topics divided into ten major categories. Each topic is an invitation to dive into a unique aspect of art history and explore its significance in the global artistic landscape.

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Ancient Art

The Impact of Geography on Ancient Egyptian Art
Materials and Techniques in Ancient Greek Sculpture
Roman Architecture: Principles and Examples
Understanding the Art of the Ancient Maya Civilization
Development of Buddhist Art in Ancient India
Influence of Ancient Chinese Art on Later Dynasties
Ancient Persian Art and Its Impact on the Middle East
Representation of Deities in Ancient Egyptian Art
The Use of Color in Ancient Roman Frescoes
Comparative Analysis of Ancient Greek and Roman Sculpture

Medieval Art

Role of Art in Christian Worship in the Middle Ages
Gothic Architecture: Characteristics and Examples
The Influence of Islam on Medieval Art in Spain
The Evolution of Iconography in Medieval Paintings
Art as Propaganda in the Middle Ages
The Role of Women in Medieval Art and Society
Transition from Romanesque to Gothic Architecture
Analysis of Illuminated Manuscripts in the Medieval Period
The Influence of Byzantine Art on the Western Medieval Art
Representation of the Divine and Demonic in Medieval Art

Renaissance Art

Humanism and Its Impact on Renaissance Art
The Techniques of Leonardo da Vinci
The Role of Patronage in the Italian Renaissance
The Evolution of Self-Portraiture in the Renaissance
Comparison of Italian and Northern Renaissance Art
Michelangelo’s Influence on Art and Artists
Analysis of Female Figures in Renaissance Paintings
Use of Perspective in Renaissance Art
Interpretation of Mythology in Renaissance Art
Influence of Classical Antiquity on Renaissance Artists

Baroque and Rococo Art

Impact of the Counter-Reformation on Baroque Art in Italy
The Evolution of Landscape Painting in the Baroque Period
Use of Light in Caravaggio’s Paintings
Analysis of Rembrandt’s Portraiture
Comparison of French and Spanish Baroque Art
Women Artists of the Baroque Period
The Transition from Baroque to Rococo Art
Impact of Louis XIV’s Reign on French Art and Architecture
Rococo Art as a Reflection of Aristocratic Society
The Cultural and Artistic Influence of Versailles

Neoclassicism and Romanticism

Influence of Archaeological Discoveries on Neoclassical Art
Comparison of Neoclassicism and Romanticism
Exploration of the Sublime in Romantic Landscape Paintings
Impact of the French Revolution on Art
Analysis of David’s Oath of the Horatii
Romanticism and the Depiction of National Identity
Romantic Artists’ Fascination with the Exotic and the Orient
The Role of Women Artists in the Romantic Period
Neoclassical Architecture in Europe and America
Depiction of Mythology in Romantic Art

Modern Art Movements

Impressionism and the Art of Life
The Influence of Japanese Art on Vincent Van Gogh
Symbolism in Edvard Munch’s The Scream
Pablo Picasso and the Evolution of Cubism
The Impact of WWI on the Artistic Movements of the 1920s
Surrealism: Dreams and the Unconscious
Political Messages in Diego Rivera’s Murals
Abstract Expressionism and the Sublime
Pop Art as a Reflection of Consumer Culture
Minimalism and the Idea of Less is More

Contemporary Art

Conceptual Art and the Importance of Ideas
The Role of Art in Critiquing Contemporary Society
Environmental Messages in Contemporary Art
Representation of Identity in Contemporary Art
Feminism and Contemporary Art
The Use of New Media in Contemporary Art
Installation Art and Audience Participation
Street Art and Its Role in Urban Spaces
The Influence of Globalization on Contemporary Art
Impact of Digital Technologies on Contemporary Art Practices

Non-Western Art

The Influence of African Art on Modernist Artists
Understanding Islamic Calligraphy
The Role of Art in Traditional African Societies
Traditional Japanese Ukiyo-e Prints
The Development of Indian Mughal Painting
The Role of Ancestors in Oceanic Art
Comparison of Traditional and Contemporary Native American Art
Indigenous Australian Art and Its Connection to the Land
Artistic Traditions of the Inuit
Symbolism in Persian Miniature Painting

Women in Art

Female Representation in Ancient Greek Art
Depictions of Women in Baroque Art
Women Artists of the Renaissance and Their Struggles
The Influence of Feminism on Contemporary Art
Exploration of Gender Roles through Art
Mary Cassatt and Her Influence on Impressionism
Frida Kahlo: An Icon of Feminism and Mexican Heritage
The Evolution of Female Nude in Art History
The Guerrilla Girls and Their Fight for Equality in the Art World
The Impact of Postmodernism on Feminist Art

Art Theory and Criticism

The Role of the Art Critic: From Clement Greenberg to Jerry Saltz
Postmodernism and the Death of the Author
Formal Analysis: Its Role and Importance
The Semiotics of Art: Signs and Symbols
Influence of Psychoanalytic Theory on Art Criticism
Iconology and the Hidden Meanings in Visual Art
Deconstruction and the Analysis of Art
Feminist Approaches to Art Criticism
Influence of Marxism on Art Theory and Criticism
The Impact of Postcolonial Theory on Art Criticism

Each category in this comprehensive list of art history research paper topics provides a wide range of subjects to explore. These diverse topics cater to various interests and offer a rich field for academic exploration. They each represent an invitation to delve deeper into the fascinating world of art history, offering you the opportunity to develop your understanding and share your unique perspective with others.

Art History and the Range of Research Paper Topics it Offers

Art history is an exceptionally broad field that spans thousands of years, multiple continents, countless cultures, and myriad forms of artistic expression. From the earliest cave paintings to contemporary digital art, the study of art history allows us to explore human history through the lens of visual culture. This piece explores the expanse of art history and the wide range of research paper topics it offers to students.

Art history is often compartmentalized into periods and styles, such as Ancient, Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, Neoclassical, Romantic, Modern, and Contemporary art. Each era has its distinct characteristics, historical context, and notable artists, providing a myriad of potential research topics. For instance, one could study the impact of the Counter-Reformation on Baroque art in Italy or analyze the evolution of self-portraiture during the Renaissance.

A profound understanding of these periods and styles can also pave the way to comparative studies, allowing for interesting contrasts and parallels to be drawn between different epochs or artistic movements. For example, contrasting the logical, reason-based approach of Neoclassicism with the emotion and individualism of Romanticism can lead to a rich analysis of cultural shifts during these times.

Moreover, art history offers ample scope for studying non-Western art. Researching non-Western artistic traditions—such as African art, Islamic calligraphy, Japanese Ukiyo-e prints, or Indigenous Australian art—provides not only aesthetic appreciation but also deeper insights into these cultures’ philosophies, social structures, and spiritual beliefs.

Art history is not just the study of “high art” or the art of the elite and educated classes. Folk art, outsider art, street art, and other forms of “low art” are equally valuable subjects of study. These genres often give voice to marginalized groups and offer valuable insights into popular culture and the concerns of the everyday people.

Another compelling avenue of research is the exploration of thematic elements in art history. These themes could range from the representation of women, the interpretation of mythology, the depiction of national identity, to the portrayal of the sublime in nature. Thematic studies often transcend the boundaries of period and style, making them an exciting approach for those interested in cross-cultural and transhistorical comparisons.

The study of individual artists and their oeuvre is yet another rich area of research in art history. Focusing on a single artist’s work can provide a microcosmic view of broader artistic, cultural, and social trends. A deep dive into the works of influential artists like Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Rembrandt, or Frida Kahlo can reveal much about the time, place, and context in which they created their art.

Art history also encompasses the study of art theory and criticism, which could lead to engaging research on topics like the role of the art critic, the influence of psychoanalytic theory on art criticism, or the impact of postcolonial theory on art criticism.

Moreover, with the rise of new media and digital technologies, contemporary art offers a plethora of unique research areas. From conceptual art and installation art to digital art and virtual reality, these new forms of art reflect the changing world and often challenge traditional notions of what art can be.

Choosing a research topic in art history is a process of personal exploration. It involves identifying your interests, asking questions, and being willing to follow a path of inquiry wherever it may lead. It requires an openness to learning and discovery, a willingness to engage with different cultures and times, and an ability to appreciate different forms of artistic expression.

In conclusion, art history, as a field of study, offers an almost infinite range of potential research topics. Whether your interest lies in specific periods or styles, individual artists or movements, thematic elements or theoretical concerns, art history has something for everyone. Through studying art history and engaging in research, you can deepen your understanding of the world and your place in it, gaining insights that are both personally enriching and academically rewarding.

Choosing Art History Research Paper Topics

Choosing the right research paper topic is crucial in art history. It allows you to explore your interests, showcase your knowledge, and contribute to the field. This section provides expert advice on selecting art history research paper topics that are engaging, significant, and conducive to in-depth analysis.

Understand the Scope and Context : To choose an art history research paper topic, start by understanding the scope and context of the subject. Familiarize yourself with different art movements, periods, and regions. Consider the specific time period, artistic styles, cultural influences, and socio-political contexts that interest you.
Follow Your Passion : Passion is key when selecting a research paper topic. Identify aspects of art history that genuinely excite you. Whether it’s Renaissance art, modern sculpture, or ancient Egyptian paintings, selecting a topic that aligns with your interests will make the research process more enjoyable and rewarding.
Narrow Down the Focus : Art history is a vast field, so it’s important to narrow down your focus. Instead of choosing broad topics like “Renaissance art,” consider specific themes, artists, or art movements within that era. For example, you could explore the influence of Leonardo da Vinci’s techniques on Renaissance portraiture.
Conduct Preliminary Research : Before finalizing your topic, conduct preliminary research to ensure sufficient resources are available. Look for scholarly articles, books, museum catalogs, and online databases that provide relevant information and analysis. This step will help you determine if your chosen topic has enough material for a comprehensive research paper.
Analyze Existing Scholarship : Reviewing existing scholarship is crucial for identifying gaps in knowledge and potential research avenues. Read scholarly articles, dissertations, and books on art history topics related to your interests. This will help you develop a unique research question and contribute to the academic discourse.
Incorporate Interdisciplinary Approaches : Art history is an interdisciplinary field, so consider incorporating perspectives from other disciplines. Explore connections between art and politics, society, philosophy, or gender studies. This interdisciplinary approach will add depth and richness to your research paper.
Consult with Professors and Experts : Seek guidance from your professors or art history experts. They can provide valuable insights, suggest potential topics, and recommend relevant sources. Engage in discussions, attend lectures, and take advantage of their expertise to refine your research paper topic.
Brainstorm and Create a Shortlist : Brainstorm a list of potential art history research paper topics based on your interests, preliminary research, and consultations. Write down keywords, themes, and specific ideas that capture your attention. Then, narrow down the list to create a shortlist of the most compelling topics.
Consider Significance and Originality : Choose a topic that is both significant and original. Consider the broader implications of your research and how it contributes to the field of art history. Aim to uncover lesser-known artists, analyze understudied artworks, or challenge prevailing interpretations.
Refine and Finalize Your Topic : Refine your research topic based on the above considerations. Craft a clear and concise research question or thesis statement that guides your exploration. Ensure your topic is specific, manageable within the scope of your research paper, and aligned with the requirements of your assignment.

Selecting an art history research paper topic requires careful consideration and a balance between personal interest and academic significance. By understanding the scope, conducting preliminary research, and seeking expert guidance, you can choose a topic that allows you to delve into the fascinating world of art history and make a meaningful contribution to the field.

How to Write an Art History Research Paper

Writing an art history research paper requires a combination of critical analysis, research skills, and effective writing techniques. This section provides a comprehensive guide on how to write an art history research paper, from selecting a topic to organizing your findings and presenting a compelling argument.

Understand the Assignment : Start by understanding the requirements of your research paper assignment. Pay attention to the guidelines, word count, formatting style (e.g., MLA, APA), and any specific research questions or prompts provided by your instructor. This will help you structure your paper accordingly.
Choose a Compelling Topic : Select a research topic that aligns with your interests and offers ample opportunities for exploration. Refer to the expert advice section on choosing art history research paper topics for guidance. Ensure your topic is specific, manageable, and allows for in-depth analysis.
Conduct In-Depth Research : Gather relevant sources and conduct in-depth research on your chosen topic. Explore scholarly articles, books, museum catalogs, primary sources, and online databases. Take detailed notes, citing the sources properly, and keep track of key findings, arguments, and interpretations.
Develop a Thesis Statement : Craft a clear and concise thesis statement that presents the main argument or focus of your research paper. Your thesis should be debatable, supported by evidence, and guide the direction of your analysis. It is the foundation upon which your entire paper will be built.
Create an Outline : Outline your research paper to provide structure and organization. Divide your paper into sections, including an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Each section should address a specific aspect of your research, supporting your thesis statement and providing a logical flow of ideas.
Write a Compelling Introduction : Begin your research paper with an engaging introduction that grabs the reader’s attention and provides necessary background information. Clearly state your thesis statement and provide a brief overview of your research objectives, setting the tone for the rest of the paper.
Present Well-Structured Body Paragraphs : The body paragraphs of your research paper should present your analysis, evidence, and supporting arguments. Each paragraph should focus on a specific point, providing clear topic sentences and supporting evidence from your research. Use proper citations to credit your sources.
Analyze Artworks and Interpretations : Engage in critical analysis of artworks, considering their formal elements, stylistic features, cultural context, and historical significance. Compare and contrast different interpretations, theories, or scholarly viewpoints to develop a well-rounded analysis of your chosen topic.
Incorporate Visual Evidence : Include visual evidence in your research paper to enhance your analysis. Include high-quality images of artworks, architectural structures, or artifacts relevant to your topic. Label and refer to them in the text, providing insightful descriptions and analysis.
Craft a Strong Conclusion : End your research paper with a strong conclusion that summarizes your main arguments and restates your thesis statement. Reflect on the significance of your research findings, discuss any limitations or unanswered questions, and suggest avenues for further exploration.
Revise and Edit : After completing the initial draft, revise and edit your research paper for clarity, coherence, and adherence to academic standards. Check for grammatical errors, ensure proper citations, and refine your arguments for precision and conciseness.
Seek Feedback : Share your research paper with peers, professors, or mentors for feedback. Consider their suggestions and critique to improve the quality of your paper. Pay attention to clarity of expression, logical organization, and the strength of your argument.
Proofread and Format : Before submitting your research paper, thoroughly proofread it to eliminate any spelling, punctuation, or formatting errors. Ensure that your paper adheres to the required formatting style, including proper citations and a bibliography or works cited page.

Writing an art history research paper requires a combination of research skills, critical thinking, and effective writing techniques. By following these steps, you can create a well-structured and compelling research paper that showcases your understanding of art history, engages with scholarly discourse, and contributes to the field.

iResearchNet’s Writing Services

At iResearchNet, we understand the challenges faced by students when it comes to writing art history research papers. With our dedicated team of expert writers and comprehensive writing services, we are here to assist you throughout the research and writing process. Whether you need help selecting a topic, conducting in-depth research, or crafting a compelling argument, our services are designed to support your academic success. In this section, we will highlight the key features of iResearchNet’s writing services and demonstrate how we can be your trusted partner in art history research papers.

Expert Degree-Holding Writers : We take pride in our team of expert writers, who hold advanced degrees in art history and related disciplines. They have a deep understanding of the subject matter and possess the knowledge and expertise to handle a wide range of art history topics. Our writers are committed to delivering high-quality and well-researched papers that meet your academic requirements.
Custom Written Works : Every research paper we deliver is custom written to your specific needs and instructions. We understand that each project is unique, and we tailor our approach accordingly. Our writers conduct thorough research, analyze relevant sources, and develop original arguments and insights to ensure that your paper stands out.
In-Depth Research : Our writers are skilled in conducting in-depth research on art history topics. They have access to a wide range of scholarly databases, art catalogs, and reliable online resources. They meticulously gather relevant sources, critically analyze them, and integrate the most up-to-date and authoritative information into your research paper.
Custom Formatting : We are well-versed in various formatting styles, including APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, and Harvard. Our writers adhere to the specific guidelines of your institution and ensure that your paper is formatted correctly, including in-text citations, references, footnotes, and bibliography.
Top Quality : At iResearchNet, we prioritize quality in every aspect of our services. Our writers are dedicated to delivering research papers that demonstrate depth of analysis, clarity of expression, and adherence to academic standards. We have a rigorous quality assurance process in place to ensure that every paper meets the highest standards of excellence.
Customized Solutions : We understand that each student has unique requirements and preferences. That’s why we offer customized solutions tailored to your specific needs. Whether you need assistance with topic selection, literature review, data analysis, or any other aspect of your research paper, we are here to provide personalized support.
Flexible Pricing : We offer flexible pricing options to accommodate your budget. We understand that students have different financial constraints, and we strive to provide affordable services without compromising on quality. Our pricing structure is transparent, and we offer various packages to suit your specific requirements.
Short Deadlines : We recognize that time constraints can be a significant challenge for students. That’s why we offer short deadlines for urgent research paper requests. If you have a tight deadline, our writers can work efficiently to deliver a high-quality paper within as little as 3 hours.
Timely Delivery : Meeting deadlines is a top priority for us. We understand the importance of submitting your research paper on time to ensure academic success. Our writers are committed to delivering your paper within the agreed-upon timeframe, allowing you ample time for review and revision.
24/7 Support : We provide round-the-clock customer support to address any queries or concerns you may have. Our friendly and knowledgeable support team is available 24/7 to assist you with any aspect of our services, from placing an order to tracking your project’s progress.
Absolute Privacy : We prioritize the confidentiality of your personal information and the work we do for you. At iResearchNet, we have strict privacy policies in place to safeguard your identity and ensure that your research paper remains confidential. You can trust us to handle your project with utmost confidentiality.
Easy Order Tracking : We provide a user-friendly platform that allows you to track the progress of your research paper. You can stay updated on the status of your project, communicate with your assigned writer, and easily access your completed paper when it is ready.
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At iResearchNet, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive writing services to support students in their art history research papers. Our team of expert writers, customized solutions, in-depth research, and commitment to quality make us your trusted partner in academic success. Whether you need assistance with topic selection, research, writing, or any other aspect of your research paper, we are here to help. Unleash your potential with iResearchNet’s writing services and experience the convenience and excellence we offer. Place your order today and let us assist you in achieving your academic goals.

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112 Modern Art Essay Topics

🏆 best essay topics on modern art, 👍 good modern art research topics & essay examples, 🎓 most interesting modern art research titles, 💡 simple modern art essay ideas, ❓ questions about modern art.

Modern Operating System: Concept and Design
Influence of the Greek Art on Contemporary Artist Works
Interpretation of Supernatural Representation in Modern Art and Media
Bauhaus and Modernism as Art and Design Movements
Race and Ethnicity in Contemporary Art
Pop Art and Modern Technology in Artworks
Introduction to Modern Art: Stylistics
Modernism in Hemingway’s “Big Two-Hearted River” Hemingway’s “Big Two-Hearted River” possesses a number of traits that are characteristic of the modernist literature, namely, perspectivism, the art of omission, and fragmentation.
Major Contemporary and Modern Art Movements Art is a dynamic field that encompasses various movements and artists. The modern art movement encompasses creative work created between the 1860s and the 1970s.
Ancient Roman Roads and Their Influence on Modern Road Designs The author of the article Ancient Roman roads and their influence on modern road designs is Rowyn Lea. There is no reliable information about this writer.
Photography as a Contemporary Art Form In this era, photography, in addition to establishing itself as an art form, and developing its own aesthetic value, has turned into a full-fledged material for other art forms.
The Dada Art Movement and Its Influence on Contemporary Art The present paper argues that the Dada art movement and its ideas of rejection of art and organized chaos significantly influenced contemporary design and art.
Tracey Emin as a Post-modernist Feminist Artist The main characteristic of a postmodern artist, like Tracey Emin, is anything that anyone does which has a profound effect on somebody or something else.
Modern Art by Pam Meecham and Julie Sheldon The book “Modern Art: A Critical Introduction” by Pam Meecham and Julie Sheldon discusses various aspects of the contemporary art and the factors that influence its evolution.
Modern Art: Paintings and Representatives This paper examines several paintings, created by Pablo Picasso, Umberto Boccioni, Kazimir Malevich, Henri Matisse, Wassily Kandinsky, and Salvador Dalí.
Analyzing Modern Art: Works Comparison Artists may choose their path, inspiration, style, models, and general aim. Viewers can select what creative works they value and appreciate.
Contemporary Islamic Art: Hojat Amani’s “Fallen Angels” One of the artists who made a visible impact in contemporary Islamic art is Hojat Amani, whose work “Fallen Angels” is inspired by the concept of angels in Muslim culture.
The Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles: The Financial Crisis of 2008 The economic downturn of 2008 forced MOCA to transform its institutional roles, typology, exhibition approaches, and planning and implement a suitable managerial structure to achieve its future goals.
Contemporary Artists: Andrea Zittel, Cindy Sherman, Krzysztof Wodiczko The paper discusses contemporary artists who will end up being published in history books. It includes Andrea Zittel, Cindy Sherman, and Krzysztof Wodiczko.
Artwork Collections in the Museum of Contemporary Art The paper discusses the Museum of Contemporary Art in North Miami. Some artistic works date back many years, while others date as recently as 2020.
Conceptualization of Modern Art The paper states that today’s art appreciation is directly connected with exclusive creations aimed at changing the traditional perception of art.
African Culture and Non-Western Modern Art Culture is seen extensively in how the African people work, dance, worship, communicate, and make arts, clothing, and music.
Observer of Contemporary Art in Abu Dhabi This presentation aims to explore the perspective of an observer in the context of contemporary art in Abu Dhabi.
Modern Art History Based on Picasso and Cezanne This paper is an annotated bibliography of the five books related to the topic of art history and the thematic analysis of some works of art.
Contemporary Religious Art: Visual Art Art has always been an integral part of religion, and visual art is especially effective in conveying religious values.
Modern Art Surrealists and Abstract Surrealists and abstract expressionists explored notions of the artists’ subconsciousness, while pop and most postmodern art are appropriate from the outside popular culture.
The Record Contemporary Art and Vinyl The exhibition “The Record Contemporary Art and Vinyl” in the Miami Art Museum can be evaluated as a nice event of the local cultural life.
Photography’s Effects on Modern Art Photography has been hailed by the masses as one of the best means of bringing the rest of the world to the public, affording them views of far-away places and peoples.
The Tempest and the Contemporary Arts The Tempest is one of the most famous plays of the final period of Shakespearean creative work. The problems that the author revealed in this play to be rather topical for the present day.
The Making of Modern Life: Art and Design in the Nineteenth Century This work will examine from the perspective of visual and comparative analysis what methods of art prevailed in different centuries and the paradox between techniques and moods.
Weimar Culture Through Escapism in Modern Art This essay briefly analyzes the root reasons for the prevalence of Weimar Culture through the prism of escapism in modern art.
Ancient Greek Tradition and Influence on Modern Art Ancient Greeks can be regarded as one of the groups which have made the most significant contributions to the development of different types of art.
Salem Witch Trials and Modern Counterparts It is essential to observe that both witches in Salem in 1692 as well as communists during the Red Scare period of the 50s were scapegoats of the society.
Contemporary Design: Evolution Queen Wall Bed Peculiarities of contemporary design can be easily seen in the Evolution Queen Wall Bed. At the first gaze, it is possible to say that the bed looks very elegant and even exquisite.
Contemporary Artists in Culture This paper discusses the specific features or factors that interest people in contemporary artists’ works and what questions they pose.
Tish Jones as a Contemporary Artist Tish Jones is an influential artist, poet, emcee, and a master of the spoken word. This paper highlights how he interacts with the society and his contribution to the world.
Theory of Modern Art Matisse tries to expose the fact that art cannot be clearly expressed in its pictorial form, without essentially encompassing the artist’s thoughts.
Modernism and Global Modernity: What Can Modern Art Offer to Global History?
Weathervane and American Modern Art
Was Modern Art Greater Influenced by the Invention of the Camera or Kindergarten
Late Nineteenth Century Modern Art Transformation
Egyptian Architecture and Art and Their Modern Art Influence
The European Modern Art in the Period of WWI
Art Expertise Modulation of Emotional Response to Modern Art
“Why Beauty Matters” Documentary: Standardized Degradation of Modern Art
Modern Art Desserts: From Mondrian Cake to Matisse Parfait
Good Picasso vs. Pollock: Comparing Two Great Artists of the Modern Art Era
Repeated Image and Transformation in Modern Art
Banksy and Picasso’s Representations of Postmodern and Modern Art
Modern Art and Its Relation to Graphic Design
How Women Were Depicted in Modern Art in the 1860s-1960s
Modern Art and “The Painted Word” by Thomas Wolfe
“The Three Musketeers” and the Effect This Had on Modern Art
Cubism and the 20th Century Modern Art
Lillian Schwartz and Tracey Moffat: Modern Technology and Modern Art
Factors That Have Influenced the Modern Art Movement
The Use of Technologies and Social Media in Modern Art
Modern Art and Design in the Novel “Babbitt” by Sinclair Lewis
Creating Modern Art: The Changing Careers of Painters in France From Impressionism to Cubism
The Food From Ancient to Modern Art: The Image of the Satyr With the Grapes
The Concept of Modern Art From the Perspective of a Renaissance
History and Current Situation of Modern Art in the Philippines
Why Do Some People Hate Modern Art?
The Role Movie Making Has Played in the Development of Modern Art and How This Advances Into the Future
Activism as a Platform for Modern Art
How Obscenity Has Crept Into Modern Art and the Challenge It Poses to the Future of Art
Impressionism and Its Influence on Modern Art
The Great American Thing: Modern Art and National Identity
Are People Scared of Modern Art?
The Major Factors That Influenced the Development of Modern Art in the World Today
Merging the Traditional and Modern Art
Modern Art Museums and Their Role in Transforming Societies
Technology Impact Upon Modern Art
One Hit Wonders: Why Some of the Most Important Works of Modern Art Are Not by Important Artists
The Peculiarities of Modern Art in Comparison With Previous Art Periods
The Multiplicity of Forms in Modern Art
Is Contemporary Art Merely a Way for Greedy Capitalists to Make Money?
Modern Art and the Impact of the Russian Revolution
What Makes Modern Art Modern?
The First Modern Art Movement of the Twentieth Century
Political Cartoons as a Modern Art Form
What Is Modern Art? A Guide to Modern Art History
The ‘Isms’ of Modern Art: Belgium, Netherlands, and Beyond
Modern Art in the Eyes of Today’s Youth
Is Modern Art Dead? An Overview of Modernism and Its Aesthetics
Modern and Contemporary Art of South Asia
Why the Feminist Movement Is Important for Modern Art
Why Was Modern Art Heavily Criticized?
Is Modern or Contemporary Art Better?
What Does Modern Art Reject?
Why Is Modern Art Difficult?
How Did Modern Art End?
Why Do Modern Arts Have an Impact on Culture and Society?
Why Do People Like Modern Art?
Does Modern Art Tell a Story?
Why Is Modern Art Better Than Traditional Art?
What Is Modern Art in Art Appreciation?
Are We Still in the Modern Art Era?
Who Invented Modern Art?
What Is the Opposite of Modern Art?
How Does Modern Art Affect Your Daily Living?
What Is the Oldest Modern Art?
Who Is Most Famous for Modern Art?
How Is Modern Art Different From Earlier Styles?
What Are the Characteristics of Modern Art?
Is Modern Art Difficult to Understand?
What Is the Difference Between Modern and Contemporary Art?
Is Modern Art Personal Expression?
What Is the Main Point of Modern Art?
Why Is Modern Art Useful in the 21st Century?
How Does Modern Arts Affect the New Generation of Artists Today?
Why Is Modern Art So Overpriced?

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StudyCorgi. (2022, July 14). 112 Modern Art Essay Topics. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/modern-art-essay-topics/

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StudyCorgi . "112 Modern Art Essay Topics." July 14, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/modern-art-essay-topics/.

StudyCorgi . 2022. "112 Modern Art Essay Topics." July 14, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/modern-art-essay-topics/.

These essay examples and topics on Modern Art were carefully selected by the StudyCorgi editorial team. They meet our highest standards in terms of grammar, punctuation, style, and fact accuracy. Please ensure you properly reference the materials if you’re using them to write your assignment.

This essay topic collection was updated on January 8, 2024 .

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80+ Great Research Titles Examples in Various Academic Fields

Coming up with a research title for an academic paper is one of the most challenging parts of the writing process. Even though there is an unlimited quantity of research titles to write about, knowing which one is best for you can be hard. We have done the research for you and compiled eighty examples of research titles to write on. Additionally, we have divided the research titles examples into sections to make them easier to choose.

Research Study Examples of Current Events

Examples of research topics on ethics, title of research study examples on health, research paper title examples on social concerns, examples of research title on art and culture, example of research interest in religion, samples of research study topics on technology, research examples of environmental studies, good research title examples on history, specific topic examples regarding education, research title examples for students on family, food, and nutrition, research problems examples computer science, samples of research title about business marketing and communications, sample of research study topics in women’s studies, research problem example on politics, what are some examples of research paper topics on law, final words about research titles.

When it comes to choosing a good sample research title, research is one of the best tips you can get. By reading widely, including your school notes and scholarly articles, you will have a problem/line of interest examples in research. Then, you can derive any question from areas that appear to have a knowledge gap and proceed with researching the answer. As promised, below are eighty research title examples categorized into different areas, including social media research topics .

Discuss the peculiar policies of a named country – for example, discuss the impacts of the one-child policy of China.
Research on the influence of a named political leader, say a president, on the country they governed and other countries around. For instance, you can talk about how Trump’s presidency has changed international relations.
Conduct an analysis of a particular aspect of two named countries – for example, the history of the relationship between the U.S. and North Korea.
Compare the immigration laws in two or more named countries – for example, discuss how the immigration laws in the U.S. compares with other countries.
Discuss how the Black Lives Matter movement has affected the view and discussions about racism in the United States.
Enumerate the different ways the government of the United States can reduce deaths arising from the unregulated use of guns.
Analyze the place of ethics in medicine or of medical practitioners. For instance, you can discuss the prevalence of physician-assisted suicides in a named country. You may also talk about the ethicality of such a practice and whether it should be legal.
Explain how recent research breakthroughs have affected that particular field – for instance, how stem cell research has impacted the medical field.
Explain if and why people should be able to donate organs in exchange for money.
Discuss ethical behaviors in the workplace and (or) the educational sector. For example, talk about whether or not affirmative action is still important or necessary in education or the workplace.
Weigh the benefits and risks of vaccinating children and decide which one outweighs the other. Here, you might want to consider the different types of vaccinations and the nature and frequency of associated complications.
Investigate at least one of the health issues that currently pose a threat to humanity and which are under investigation. These issues can include Alzheimer’s, cancer, depression, autism, and HIV/AIDS. Research how these issues affect individuals and society and recommend solutions to alleviate cost and suffering.
Study some individuals suffering from and under treatment for depression. Then, investigate the common predictors of the disease and how this information can help prevent the issue.

Tip : To make this example of a research title more comprehensive, you can focus on a certain age range – say, teenagers.

Discuss whether or not free healthcare and medication should be available to people and the likely implications.
Identify and elucidate different methods or programs that have been most effective in preventing or reducing teen pregnancy.
Analyze different reasons and circumstances for genetic manipulation and the different perspectives of people on this matter. Then, discuss whether or not parents should be allowed to engineer designer babies.
Identify the types of immigration benefits, including financial, medical, and education, your country provides for refugees and immigrants. Then, discuss how these benefits have helped them in settling down and whether more or less should be provided.
Discuss the acceptance rate of the gay community in your country or a specific community. For example, consider whether or not gay marriage is permitted if they can adopt children, and if they are welcome in religious gatherings.
Explore and discuss if terrorism truly creates a fear culture that can become a society’s unintended terrorist.
Consider and discuss the different techniques one can use to identify pedophiles on social media.

Tip : Social issues research topics are interesting, but ensure you write formally and professionally.

Investigate the importance or lack of importance of art in primary or secondary education. You can also recommend whether or not it should be included in the curriculum and why.

Tip : You can write on this possible research title based on your experiences, whether positive or negative.

Discuss the role of illustration in children’s books and how it facilitates easy understanding in children. You may focus on one particular book or select a few examples and compare and contrast.
Should the use of art in books for adults be considered, and what are the likely benefits?
Compare and contrast the differences in art from two named cultural Renaissance – for instance, the Northern Renaissance and the Italian Renaissance.
Investigate how sexism is portrayed in different types of media, including video games, music, and film. You can also talk about whether or not the amount of sexism portrayed has reduced or increased over the years.
Explore different perspectives and views on dreams; are they meaningful or simply a game of the sleeping mind? You can also discuss the functions and causes of dreams, like sleeping with anxiety, eating before bed, and prophecies.
Investigate the main reasons why religious cults are powerful and appealing to the masses, referring to individual cases.
Investigate the impact of religion on the crime rate in a particular region.

Tip : Narrow down this research title by choosing to focus on a particular age group, say children or teenagers, or family. Alternatively, you can focus on a particular crime in the research to make the paper more extensive.

Explore reasons why Martin Luther decided to split with the Catholic church.
Discuss the circumstances in Siddhartha’s life that led to him becoming the Buddha.

Tip : It is important to remove sentiments from your research and base your points instead on clear evidence from a sound study. This ensures your title of research does not lead to unsubstantiated value judgments, which reduces the quality of the paper.

Discuss how the steel sword, gunpowder, biological warfare, longbow, or atomic bomb has changed the nature of warfare.

Tip : For this example of the research problem, choose only one of these technological developments or compare two or more to have a rich research paper.

Explore the changes computers, tablets, and smartphones have brought to human behaviors and culture, using published information and personal experience.

Tip : Approach each research study example in a research paper context or buy research paper online , giving a formal but objective view of the subject.

Are railroads and trains primary forces in the industrialization, exploitation, and settlement of your homeland or continent?
Discuss how the use of fossil fuels has changed or shaped the world.

Tip : Narrow down this title of the research study to focus on a local or particular area or one effect of fossil fuels, like oil spill pollution.

Discuss what progress countries have made with artificial intelligence. You can focus on one named country or compare the progress of one country with another.
Investigate the factual status of global warming – that is, is it a reality or a hoax? If it is a reality, explore the primary causes and how humanity can make a difference.
Conduct in-depth research on endangered wildlife species in your community and discuss why they have become endangered. You can also enumerate what steps the community can take to prevent these species from going extinct and increase their chances of survival.
Investigate the environmental soundness of the power sources in your country or community. Then, recommend alternative energy sources that might be best suited for the area and why.
Consider an area close to wildlife reserves and national parks, and see whether oil and mineral exploration has occurred there. Discuss whether this action should be allowed or not, with fact-backed reasons.
Investigate how the use and abolishment of DDT have affected the population of birds in your country.

Tip : Each example research title requires that you consult authoritative scientific reports to improve the quality of your paper. Furthermore, specificity and preciseness are required in each example of research title and problem, which only an authority source can provide.

Discuss the importance of a major historical event and why it was so important in the day. These events can include the assassination of John F. Kennedy or some revolutionary document like the Magna Carta.
Consider voyagers such as the Vikings, Chinese, as well as native populations and investigate whether Columbus discovered America first.
Choose a named historical group, family, or individual through their biographies, examining them for reader responses.
Research people of different cultural orientations and their responses to the acts of others who live around them.
Investigate natural disasters in a named country and how the government has responded to them. For example, explore how the response of the New Orleans government to natural disasters has changed since Hurricane Katrina.

Tip : Focus this research title sample on one particular country or natural disaster or compare the responses of two countries with each other.

Explore the educational policy, “no child left behind,” investigating its benefits and drawbacks.
Investigate the concept of plagiarism in the twenty-first century, its consequences, and its prevalence in modern universities. Take a step further to investigate how and why many students don’t understand the gravity of their errors.
Do in-depth research on bullying in schools, explaining the seriousness of the problem in your area in particular. Also, recommend actions schools, teachers, and parents can take to improve the situation if anything.
Explore the place of religion in public schools; if it has a place, explain why, and if it does not, explain why not.
Does a student’s financial background have any effect on his or her academic performance? In this sample research title, you can compare students from different financial backgrounds, from wealthy to average, and their scores on standardized tests.
Is spanking one’s child considered child abuse; if so, why? In this research problem example for students, consider whether or not parents should be able to spank their children.
Investigate the relationship between family health and nutrition, focusing on particular nutrition. This example of the title of the research study, for instance, can focus on the relationship between breastfeeding and baby health.
Elucidate on, if any, the benefits of having a home-cooked meal and sitting down as a family to eat together.
Explore the effect of fast-food restaurants on family health and nutrition, and whether or not they should be regulated.
Research local food producers and farms in your community, pinpointing how much of your diet is acquired from them.

Tip : These are great research titles from which you can coin research topics for STEM students .

Compare and contrast the two major operating systems: Mac and Windows, and discuss which one is better.

Tip : This title of the research study example can lead to strong uninformed opinions on the matter. However, it is important to investigate and discuss facts about the two operating systems, basing your conclusions on these.

Explain the effect of spell checkers, autocorrect functions, and grammar checkers on the writing skills of computer users. Have these tools improved users’ writing skills or weakened them?

Tip : For this example of title research, it is better to consider more than one of these tools to write a comprehensive paper.

Discuss the role(s) artificial intelligence is playing now or will likely play in the future as regards human evolution.
Identify and investigate the next groundbreaking development in computer science (like the metaverse), explaining why you believe it will be important.
Discuss a particular trendsetting technological tool, like blockchain technology, and how it has benefited different sectors.

Tip : For this research title example, you may want to focus on the effect of one tool on one particular sector. This way, you can investigate this example of research and thesis statement about social media more thoroughly and give as many details as possible.

Consider your personal experiences as well as close friends’ and families experiences. Then, determine how marketing has invaded your lives and whether these impersonal communications are more positive than negative or vice versa.
Investigate the regulations (or lack thereof) that apply to marketing items to children in your region. Do you think these regulations are unfounded, right, or inadequate?
Investigate the merits and demerits of outsourcing customer services; you can compare the views of businesses with those of their customers.
How has the communication we do through blog sites, messaging, social media, email, and other online platforms improved interpersonal communications if it has?
Can understanding culture change the way you do business? Discuss how.

Tip : Ensure you share your reasoning on this title of the research study example and provide evidence-backed information to support your points.

Learn everything you can about eating disorders like bulimia and anorexia, as well as their causes, and symptoms. Then, investigate and discuss the impact of its significance and recommend actions that might improve the situation.
Research a major development in women’s history, like the admission of women to higher institutions and the legalization of abortion. Discuss the short-term and (or) long-term implications of the named event or development.
Discuss gender inequality in the workplace – for instance, the fact that women tend to earn less than men for doing the same job. Provide specific real-life examples as you explain the reasons for this and recommend solutions to the problem.
How have beauty contests helped women: have they empowered them in society or objectified them?

Tip : You may shift the focus of this topic research example to female strippers or women who act in pornographic movies.

Investigate exceptional businesswomen in the 21st century; you can focus on one or compare two or more.

Tip : When writing on the title of a research example related to women, avoid using persuasion tactics; instead, be tactful and professional in presenting your points.

Discuss the unique nature and implications of Donald Trump’s presidency on the United States and the world.
Investigate the conditions and forces related to the advent and rise of Nazi Germany. Shift the focus of this title research example on major wars like WWI or the American Civil War.
Is the enormous amount of money spent during election campaigns a legitimate expense?
Investigate a named major political scandal that recently occurred in your region or country. Discuss how it started, how its news spread, and its impacts on individuals in that area.
Discuss the impacts British rule had on India.
Investigate the rate of incarceration in your region and compare it with that of other countries or other regions.
Is incarcerating criminals an effective solution in promoting the rehabilitation of criminals and controlling crime rates?
Consider various perspectives on the issue of gun control and coin several argumentative essay topics on the matter.
Why do drivers continue to text while driving despite legal implications and dire consequences?
Discuss the legality of people taking their own lives due to suffering from a debilitating terminal disease.

Each example of the research title provided in this article will make for a rich, information-dense research paper. However, you have a part to play in researching thoroughly on the example of the research study. To simplify the entire process for you, hiring our writing services is key as you wouldn’t have to worry about choosing topics. Our team of skilled writers knows the right subject that suits your research and how to readily get materials on them.

ART 5284 - Design Theory & Methods

Getting Started with Art Research
Conceptualizing Your Research
Books on Visual Research and Artistic Inquiry
Primo Search: Most Of UCF's eResources and More
Web of Science
Searching the Catalog for Art
Researcher's Toolbox
Additional Guides and Help

The First Six Steps to Research

Define and articulate a research question (formulate a research hypothesis).
Identify possible sources of information in many types and formats.
Judge the scope of the project.
Reevaluate the research question based on the nature and extent of information available and the parameters of the research project.
Select the most appropriate investigative methods (surveys, interviews, experiments) and research tools (periodical indexes, databases, websites).
Plan the research project.

From 15 Steps to Good Research by Georgetown University

Questions to help with steps 1 through 3:

What are the core concepts for your project or research?
What are the core disciplines? Closely related disciplines?
How comprehensive do you need to be in your literature review?
What time span is relevant?
Which individuals and organizations are likely to publish content on your topic and why?

What would be a hypothetical title for your final paper?

<< Previous: Getting Started with Art Research
Next: Databases for Art and Digital Media >>
Last Updated: Apr 10, 2024 12:05 PM
URL: https://guides.ucf.edu/ART5284

Book series

Book titles in this series

Climate disaster preparedness.

Reimagining Extreme Events through Art and Technology

Dennis Del Favero
Susanne Thurow
Michael J. Ostwald
Ursula Frohne
Open Access

Available Renditions

Digital Technologies for Smart Business, Economics and Education

Towards a Promising Future

Amina Omrane
Gouranga Patra
Sumona Datta

Museum Management

Opportunities and Threats for Successful Museums

Milan Jan Půček
František Ochrana
Michal Plaček

The Art of Human Rights

Commingling Art, Human Rights and the Law in Africa

Romola Adeola
Michael Gyan Nyarko
Adebayo Okeowo
Frans Viljoen

The Future of Education and Labor

Gerald Bast
Elias G. Carayannis
David F. J. Campbell

The Future of Museums

Iran Revisited

Exploring the Historical Roots of Culture, Economics, and Society

Ali Pirzadeh

Arts, Research, Innovation and Society

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Student-led Showcase Puts Innovative Art Research on Display at CMU

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With forsythia petals canopied in archlike form above these words in Korean, Bethany Hwang pays homage to a loved one lost during the pandemic: “The meaning of life prevails despite the disappearance of existence.” In a different model, bearing the same vibrant yellow, handmade simulacra of these flowers rise and fall, timed to the exact breaths of her late grandmother. On sheets of paper covering walls, the flower’s form pushes through abstractions of black and gray, persisting in spite of dark conditions.

Hwang joined six other Carnegie Mellon University students to showcase transdisciplinary research during six-minute sessions in the B*A series. The presentations were held in the Frank-Ratchye STUDIO for Creative Inquiry on March 1 (opens in new window) . The event spanned two hours and allowed presenters in the College of Fine Arts to mingle, share artistic discoveries and creations, and consider the work of their peers.

What goes into a B*A presentation?

B*A presentations give students the chance to explore topics that they may not have the chance to in the traditional four-year structure offered by most universities. The yearly presentations also provide an opportunity for students to show progress, potential and outcomes of their personal research work.

The presentations do not have to relate to students’ current degree programs or coursework. They have full discretion to present research on a topic through a medium of their choosing. “It’s great for students who are self-motivated, and believe their interests will persist regardless of their status as a student,” said Harrison Apple (opens in new window) , associate director for the STUDIO. “They can put something out into the world, and have a chance to talk about their work without the pressure of evaluation.”

Emmanuel Lugo (opens in new window) , a senior pursuing a bachelor of fine arts, ran this year’s B*A event alongside College of Fine Arts junior Dariyah Scott. Both Lugo and Scott gave presentations this year in addition to organizing the event: Lugo on world-renowned biologist Lynn Margulis (discoverer of endosymbiosis) and her descent into conspiracy theories, and Scott on a technical demonstration of audio engineering techniques.

“Being able to present and also hear what other people are doing and gain inspiration from them is really useful,” Scott said. “I have experience doing live performances, but this was an opportunity to try something new.”

Some of the presentations, more theoretical in nature, showed the value of exploring specific concepts. Ilyas Khan, a sophomore pursuing a bachelor of humanities and arts (opens in new window) , presented on the local history of art and activism and his work with Sunrise Movement Pittsburgh. Anastasia Jungle-Wagner, another sophomore from the School of Art, briefly explored the idea and conditions of “kitsch.”

Other talks focused on works of art created by the students. Scott Liu, a sophomore from the School of Art, showcased outcomes of practice across various styles. Sophomore Lorie Chen, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Science and Arts degree (opens in new window) , explored the idea of creating bloblike shapes via computational means.

“You have six guaranteed minutes of everyone’s attention. It’s a really great place to practice speaking skills,” Jungle-Wagner said.“It’s an informal way of networking, and for a few people, it’s their first time even doing something like that.”

The Past and Future of B*A

“These students are the reason that it keeps going,” Apple said. “It’s word-of-mouth and part of the culture of the STUDIO.”

Many presenters choose to participate in B*A because of the already-interdisciplinary nature of their studies. Several are enrolled in CMU’s BXA Intercollege Degree Programs (opens in new window) , which sponsored the event and allows students to pursue coursework and research across multiple schools and colleges. While it borrows its naming convention from the program, B*A is not limited to participation by BXA students. Many are CFA students.

“B*A grew out of the fact that there’s this independent, self-motivated drive among students to take their research and explain what they find interesting to other people,” Apple said.

Because this drive takes so many different forms, the event’s organizers said more students outside of the College of Fine Arts should feel encouraged to participate in the future. “We’ve talked about it being more open to those outside of the School of Art,” Scott said. “There are opportunities for things to become interdisciplinary, and for collaboration, even if they’re not at that point yet.”

In addition to more participation, Lugo said he’d like to see changes made to the structure of B*A to give students more flexibility in what and how they present. “Across the whole university, what does cross-disciplinary art look like?” he said. “I would like to see it not so afraid to get technically focused or in the weeds of certain things. What we do now is great, but there might be room for other fields like STEM.”

Anastasia Jungle-Wagner, center, shows her work exploring kitsch.

Jungle-Wagner plans on participating again. They said B*A is an example of why having more presentation options for students outside of the lecture hall or classroom is important. “People can really come as they are,” they said. “They can share their interests beyond the critique setting, and people will be excited to hear it.”

Thanks to a pledged gift from STUDIO alumnus Dan Moore, B*A will receive an endowment in 2024. The Moore Family Fund will be the first dedicated source of funding for the event’s operations, and will allow a random participant to receive a monetary award for participating.

What is the Frank-Ratchye STUDIO?

The Frank-Ratchye STUDIO for Creative Inquiry was created under the Office of the Dean of the College of Fine Arts in 1989. For over 30 years, it has supported boundary-pushing research across the arts, science, technology and culture through artist residencies, courses, event programming, workshops and exhibitions. The STUDIO supports CMU faculty and staff through multiple grant-funding streams including the Frank-Ratchye Further Fund, the Steiner Visitor Invitation Grant, the XRTC Creative Research Grant and the STUDIO’s Director’s Fund. Each year the STUDIO’s team stewards over $100,000 in creative research support and programming support across the College of Fine Arts’ five schools and throughout the university as a whole.

“What brought me to all of these different things was the STUDIO,” Scott said. “I think it’s the perfect place for people who want to do a lot of different things. Having people find it can be difficult, but if you’re one of those people who wants to find a community, then we are your community. There’s so much equipment, so much support, that the skills you can learn from being there are invaluable.”

Apple said the event is an important opportunity to bring students into an independent and open environment like the STUDIO.

“Students aren’t doing this in order to secure a spot in a class or have their GPA rise. There’s not a prize. You can’t win,” Apple said. “This is so much more focused on what would happen if you were to give your time to your classmates, and really helps participants learn how to share their interests as research for research’s sake.”

“I think it’s really a big part of what makes coming to CMU’s College of Fine Arts worth it,” Apple said.

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Exploring the humanities at Tyson Research Center

Performance, two-day gathering highlight critical and creative practices

Listening is a fundamental human capacity. It also can be a skill, an artistic practice and even a political act.

So argues Anya Yermakova , an American Council of Learned Societies Emerging Voices Postdoctoral Fellow in the Center for the Humanities in Arts & Sciences at Washington University in St. Louis.

“Sound can permeate walls,” said Yermakova, a composer, dancer and sound artist as well as a historian and philosopher of logic. “Sighted humans tend to be visually dominant. Sound can go through and around the structures that people build to divide space.”

This spring, Yermakova is organizing a pair of performances, on April 14, and a two-day gathering, on April 26-27, at WashU’s Tyson Research Center . The events build on her scholarship, her creative work and her current seminar, “Topics in Embodied Communication: Listening.”

That course — which is cross-listed in performing arts, music, comparative literature and philosophy-neuroscience-psychology, all in Arts & Sciences — explores the nature of human and non-human auditory systems, as well as multimodal forms of listening (such as vibration), through a variety of theoretical perspectives.

“The final section reflects on the political possibilities of sound,” she explained. “How do we listen to that which is invisible?”

Creative connections

Tyson is a 2,000-acre environmental field station located a half-hour southwest of St. Louis. “It’s a beautiful and fascinating site that has a real precedent of accommodating artistic research,” Yermakova said. “A lot of people at WashU — across different fields and different departments — have creative connections to Tyson.”

All events will take place in an unused World War II-era storage facility. “The bunkers are really interesting,” Yermakova said. “They were constructed into the landscape, presumably so that they wouldn’t be visible from aerial view. A lot of them don’t have electricity. Converting one into a concert venue has certainly been a challenge!”

The performances, titled “Listening Into: Bunkers, Bodies, In-betweens,” will feature a largely improvised program with Yermakova on piano and providing foot percussion. Joining her will be visiting artists Florent Ghys on acoustic bass and electronics, Marina Kifferstein on violin, and Rajna Swaminathan on mridangam and kanjira. But the audience will also contribute.

“The bunkers are so resonant that simply stepping inside makes a sound,” Yermakova said. “Anyone who enters the bunker is co-creating the soundscape.”

Artistic research

Both the performances and the gathering are part of the Center for the Humanities’ Redefining Doctoral Education in the Humanities, or “Ready,” initiative. Funded with support from the Mellon Foundation, this long-running series of grants, retreats, workshops and classes aims to support innovative, interdisciplinary graduate work and to encourage the next generation of humanities scholars and practitioners.

As part of “Artistic Research at Tyson,” more than a dozen graduate students, representing nearly as many Arts & Sciences departments and programs, will present works-in-progress based on their own critical and creative engagements with the Tyson site. Other participants will include Beirut-based artist Lawrence Abu Hamdan and Salomé Voegelin, professor of sound at the University of the Arts London. Themes will range from war, displacement and the power of erosion to land as an embodiment of memory and the entanglements of human and environmental forces.

“In the graduate community, there’s definitely interest in artistic research,” Yermakova said. “A lot of people are doing complementary work, but they may not know of one another, or they may still be looking, in some way, for a home. Does this count as research? Is this legible within the university?

“In a sense, Tyson seemed like a logical place to bring everyone together.”

Performances of “Listening Into: Bunkers, Bodies, In-betweens” will take place at 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Sunday, April 14. In addition, a discussion with the artists will take place at 3 p.m.; audiences from both performances are invited to attend. “ Artistic Research at Tyson” will take place from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday, April 26; and from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, April 27. For those unable to attend the full gathering, there will be a special “drop-in hour” from 1-2 p.m. Saturday, April 26.

All events are free and open to the public, but space is limited and RSVPs are required. Tyson Research Center is located about 20 miles from the Danforth Campus, just off Interstate 44. For more information, visit the individual event pages linked above.

Comments and respectful dialogue are encouraged, but content will be moderated. Please, no personal attacks, obscenity or profanity, selling of commercial products, or endorsements of political candidates or positions. We reserve the right to remove any inappropriate comments. We also cannot address individual medical concerns or provide medical advice in this forum.

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Protecting art and passwords with biochemistry

Security experts fear Q-Day, the day when quantum computers become so powerful that they can crack today's passwords. Some experts estimate that this day will come within the next ten years. Password checks are based on cryptographic one-way functions, which calculate an output value from an input value. This makes it possible to check the validity of a password without transmitting the password itself: the one-way function converts the password into an output value that can then be used to check its validity in, say, online banking. What makes one-way functions special is that it's impossible to use their output value to deduce the input value -- in other words, the password. At least not with today's resources. However, future quantum computers could make this kind of inverse calculation easier.

Researchers at ETH Zurich have now presented a cryptographic one-way function that works differently from today's and will also be secure in the future. Rather than processing the data using arithmetic operations, it is stored as a sequence of nucleotides -- the chemical building blocks of DNA.

Based on true randomness

"Our system is based on true randomness. The input and output values are physically linked, and it's only possible to get from the input value to the output value, not the other way round," explains Robert Grass, a professor in the Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences. "Since it's a physical system and not a digital one, it can't be decoded by an algorithm, not even by one that runs on a quantum computer," adds Anne Lüscher, a doctoral student in Grass's group. She is the lead author of the paper, which was published in the journal Nature Communications .

The researchers' new system can serve as a counterfeit-proof way of certifying the authenticity of valuable objects such as works of art. The technology could also be used to trace raw materials and industrial products.

How it works

The new biochemical one-way function is based on a pool of one hundred million different DNA molecules. Each of the molecules contains two segments featuring a random sequence of nucleotides: one segment for the input value and one for the output value. There are several hundred identical copies of each of these DNA molecules in the pool, and the pool can also be divided into several pools; these are identical because they contain the same random DNA molecules. The pools can be located in different places, or they can be built into objects.

Anyone in possession of this DNA pool holds the security system's lock. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) can be used to test a key, or input value, which takes the form of a short sequence of nucleotides. During the PCR, this key searches the pool of hundreds of millions of DNA molecules for the molecule with the matching input value, and the PCR then amplifies the output value located on the same molecule. DNA sequencing is used to make the output value readable.

At first glance, the principle seems complicated. "However, producing DNA molecules with built-in randomness is cheap and easy," Grass says. The production costs for a DNA pool that can be divided up in this way are less than 1 Swiss franc. Using DNA sequencing to read out the output value is more time-consuming and expensive, but many biology laboratories already possess the necessary equipment.

Securing valuable goods and supply chains

ETH Zurich has applied for a patent on this new technology. The researchers now want to optimise and refine it to bring it to market. Because using the method calls for specialised laboratory infrastructure, the scientists think the most likely application for this form of password verification is currently for highly sensitive goods or for access to buildings with restricted access. This technology won't be an option for the broader public to check passwords until DNA sequencing in particular becomes easier.

A little more thought has already gone into the idea of using the technology for the forgery-proof certification of works of art. For instance, if there are ten copies of a picture, the artist can mark them all with the DNA pool -- perhaps by mixing the DNA into the paint, spraying it onto the picture or applying it to a specific spot.

If several owners later wish to have the authenticity of these artworks confirmed, they can get together, agree on a key (i.e. an input value) and carry out the DNA test. All the copies for which the test produces the same output value will have been proven genuine. The new technology could also be used to link crypto-assets such as NFTs, which exist only in the digital world, to an object and thus to the physical world.

Furthermore, it would support counterfeit-proof tracking along supply chains of industrial goods or raw materials. "The aviation industry, for example, has to be able to provide complete proof that it uses only original components. Our technology can guarantee traceability," Grass says. In addition, the method could be used to label the authenticity of original medicines or cosmetics.

Organic Chemistry
Telecommunications
Biochemistry
Computers and Internet
Information Technology
Mathematical induction
Quantum computer
Linus Pauling
Three-phase electric power
Quantum number
Quantum entanglement
Euclidean geometry

Story Source:

Materials provided by ETH Zurich . Original written by Fabio Bergamin. Note: Content may be edited for style and length.

Journal Reference :

Anne M. Luescher, Andreas L. Gimpel, Wendelin J. Stark, Reinhard Heckel, Robert N. Grass. Chemical unclonable functions based on operable random DNA pools . Nature Communications , 2024; 15 (1) DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47187-7

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Events See all →

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Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, 3680 Walnut St.

Earth Week 2024

Purple blooms on the verge of opening, backlit by the sun

This is a campuswide week of events, lectures, and volunteer opportunities designed to educate and inspire action related to environmental justice, climate, and nature-based solutions. This year’s theme is Restore & Regenerate.

Various locations

Take Our Children to Work Day

A child sits at a table reading a book, two closed books are on the table beside them.

Excellence in Graduate Teaching Reception

Penn Grad Center brick exterior with foliage

5:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Penn Graduate Student Center, 3615 Locust Walk

Arts, Humanities, & Social Sciences

Two Penn professors named 2024 Guggenheim Fellows

Wale adebanwi and deborah a. thomas of the school of arts & sciences are among 188 fellows chosen in the united states and canada..

Wale Adebanwi and Deborah A. Thomas , both affiliated with the Department of Africana Studies in the School of Arts & Sciences , have been named 2024 John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation Fellows . Adebanwi and Thomas were among 188 chosen in the United States and Canada chosen from nearly 3,000 applicants working across 52 scholarly disciplines. Now in its 99th year, the fellowship was created in 1925 by Simon and Olga Guggenheim in memory of their son, John Simon. The award is designed to support a project lasting six to 12 months and to allow fellows to pursue independent work at the highest level under “the freest possible conditions,” according to a press release from the John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation. Adebanwi is the Presidential Penn Compact Professor of Africana Studies and the director of the Center for Africana Studies , with a secondary appointment in the Department of Political Science . Adebanwi researches the social mobilization of power in Africa as manifested through ethnicity, nationalism, racial and urban formations, elites, state and civil society, media, intellectual history, and social theory. Educated in Nigeria and Cambridge, Adebanwi’s books include “Authority Stealing: Anti-Corruption War and Democratic Politics in Post-Military Nigeria,” “Yorùbá Elites and Ethnic Politics in Nigeria: Obáfémi Awólówò and Corporate Agency,” and “The Nation as Grand Narrative: The Nigerian Press and the Politics of Meaning.” His latest book, “ How to Become a Big Man in Africa: Subalternity, Elites, and Ethnic Politics in Contemporary Nigeria ,” will be published in August by Indiana University Press. He is the sole awardee in the category of Africana studies. “Africana studies is the study of humanity,” Adebanwi says. His current project, “The Enlightenment in Africa: Newspaper Press and Intellectual Responses to Modernity and Colonialism in Late 19th Century and Early 20th Century Nigeria,” will span three continents, taking Adebanwi to the U.S., England, and Nigeria in order to link the history of the Enlightenment to the history of people of African descent. Thomas is the R. Jean Brownlee Professor of Anthropology in the School of Arts & Sciences, where she is also core faculty in Gender, Sexuality and Women’s Studies with secondary appointments in the Graduate School of Education and the Department of Africana Studies. Her written work includes “Political Life in the Wake of the Plantation: Sovereignty, Witnessing, Repair,” for which she won the Gordon K. and Sybil Lewis Book Award from the Caribbean Studies Association and the Senior Book Prize from the American Ethnological Society and was runner-up for the Gregory Bateson Prize. Thomas also co-directed and co-produced two films, “Bad Friday: Rastafari After Coral Gardens” and “Four Days in May,” both of which explore issues of culture, power, violence, and post-colonialism in Jamaica. Prior to her life as an academic, Thomas was a professional dancer with the New York-based Urban Bush Women, a company committed to using art as a means of addressing issues of social justice and encouraging civic engagement. During her fellowship year, Thomas will be working on three ongoing projects that integrate creative practice and research. Thomas’ new work, “Inheritance: A Speculative Ethnography of Evidence,” will encompass a eugenics study conducted in 1920s Jamaica; the Ethiopian Zion Coptic church, a branch of Rastafari discovered by white American hippies in the 1960s who plied in the ganja trade to fund the building of a Black kingdom in Jamaica; and Kumina, a Jamaican ritual cultural practice that creates a communion between the living and their spiritual ancestors through drumming, singing, and dancing. The book will address questions of embodied knowledge, the technology of inheritance, and the field of anthropology, Thomas says. “It’s about embodied knowledge, what we think the body tells us, how that knowledge circulates and how that changes over time.” “Humanity faces some profound existential challenges,” said Edward Hirsch, award-winning poet and president of the John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation. “The Guggenheim Fellowship is a life-changing recognition. It’s a celebrated investment into the lives and careers of distinguished artists, scholars, scientists, writers, and other cultural visionaries who are meeting these challenges head-on and generating new possibilities and pathways across the broader culture as they do so.”

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The Art of Asking Smarter Questions

Arnaud Chevallier,
Frédéric Dalsace,
Jean-Louis Barsoux

With organizations of all sorts facing increased urgency and unpredictability, being able to ask smart questions has become key. But unlike lawyers, doctors, and psychologists, business professionals are not formally trained on what kinds of questions to ask when approaching a problem. They must learn as they go. In their research and consulting, the authors have seen that certain kinds of questions have gained resonance across the business world. In a three-year project they asked executives to brainstorm about the decisions they’ve faced and the kinds of inquiry they’ve pursued. In this article they share what they’ve learned and offer a practical framework for the five types of questions to ask during strategic decision-making: investigative, speculative, productive, interpretive, and subjective. By attending to each, leaders and teams can become more likely to cover all the areas that need to be explored, and they’ll surface information and options they might otherwise have missed.

These five techniques can drive great strategic decision-making.

Idea in Brief

The situation.

With organizations of all sorts facing increased urgency and uncertainty, the ability to ask smart questions has become key. But business professionals aren’t formally trained in that skill.

Why It’s So Challenging

Managers’ expertise often blinds them to new ideas. And the flow of questions can be hard to process in real time, so certain concerns and insights may never be raised.

Strategic questions can be grouped into five domains: investigative, speculative, productive, interpretive, and subjective. By attending to each, leaders and teams are more likely to cover all the areas that need to be explored—and they’ll surface information and options they might otherwise have missed.

As a cofounder and the CEO of the U.S. chipmaker Nvidia, Jensen Huang operates in a high-velocity industry requiring agile, innovative thinking. Reflecting on how his leadership style has evolved, he told the New York Times, “I probably give fewer answers and I ask a lot more questions….It’s almost possible now for me to go through a day and do nothing but ask questions.” He continued, “Through probing, I help [my management team]…explore ideas that they didn’t realize needed to be explored.”

Arnaud Chevallier is a professor of strategy at IMD Business School.
Frédéric Dalsace is a professor of marketing and strategy at IMD.
Jean-Louis Barsoux is a term research professor at IMD and a coauthor of ALIEN Thinking: The Unconventional Path to Breakthrough Ideas (PublicAffairs, 2021).

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7 facts about americans and taxes.

A tax preparer, left, discusses finances with a customer who is completing her return at a Miami tax service on April 17, 2023. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Spring reliably brings a whirlwind of number-crunching and form-filing as Americans finish their tax returns. Altogether, the IRS expects to process more than 160 million individual and business tax returns this season.

Ahead of Tax Day on April 15, here are seven facts about Americans and federal taxes, drawn from Pew Research Center surveys and analyses of federal data.

Ahead of Tax Day 2024, Pew Research Center sought to understand Americans’ views of the federal tax system and outline some of its features.

The public opinion data in this analysis comes from Pew Research Center surveys. Links to these surveys, including details about their methodologies, are available in the text.

The external data comes from the U.S. Office of Management and Budget and the IRS Data Book . Data is reported by fiscal year, which for the federal government begins Oct. 1 and ends Sept. 30. For example, fiscal 2024 began Oct. 1, 2023, and ends Sept. 30, 2024.

A majority of Americans feel that corporations and wealthy people don’t pay their fair share in taxes, according to a Center survey from spring 2023 . About six-in-ten U.S. adults say they’re bothered a lot by the feeling that some corporations (61%) and some wealthy people (60%) don’t pay their fair share.

A bar chart showing Americans' frustrations with the federal tax system.

Democrats are far more likely than Republicans to feel this way. Among Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents, about three-quarters say they’re bothered a lot by the feeling that some corporations (77%) and some wealthy people (77%) don’t pay their fair share. Much smaller shares of Republicans and GOP leaners share these views (46% say this about corporations and 43% about the wealthy).

Meanwhile, about two-thirds of Americans (65%) support raising tax rates on large businesses and corporations, and a similar share (61%) support raising tax rates on households with annual incomes over $400,000. Democrats are much more likely than Republicans to say these tax rates should increase.

Just over half of U.S. adults feel they personally pay more than what is fair, considering what they get in return from the federal government, according to the same survey.

A stacked bar chart showing that, compared with past years, more Americans now say they pay 'more than their fair share' in taxes.

This sentiment has grown more widespread in recent years: 56% of Americans now say they pay more than their fair share in taxes, up from 49% in 2021. Roughly a third (34%) say they pay about the right amount, and 8% say they pay less than their fair share.

Republicans are more likely than Democrats to say they pay more than their fair share (63% vs. 50%), though the share of Democrats who feel this way has risen since 2021. (The share among Republicans is statistically unchanged from 2021.)

Many Americans are frustrated by the complexity of the federal tax system, according to the same survey. About half (53%) say its complexity bothers them a lot. Of the aspects of the federal tax system that we asked about, this was the top frustration among Republicans – 59% say it bothers them a lot, compared with 49% of Democrats.

Undeniably, the federal tax code is a massive document, and it has only gotten longer over time. The printed 2022 edition of the Internal Revenue Code clocks in at 4,192 pages, excluding front matter. Income tax law alone accounts for over half of those pages (2,544).

A stacked bar chart showing that the tax code keeps getting longer and longer.

The public is divided in its views of the IRS. In a separate spring 2023 Center survey , 51% of Americans said they have an unfavorable opinion of the government tax agency, while 42% had a favorable view of the IRS. Still, of the 16 federal agencies and departments we asked about, the IRS was among the least popular on the list.

A diverging bar chart showing that Americans are divided in their views of the IRS.

Views of the IRS differ greatly by party:

Among Republicans, 29% have a favorable view and 64% have an unfavorable view.
Among Democrats, it’s 53% favorable and 40% unfavorable.

On balance, Democrats offer much more positive opinions than Republicans when it comes to most of the federal agencies we asked about. Even so, the IRS ranks near the bottom of their list.

Individual income taxes are by far the government’s largest single source of revenue, according to estimates from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).

The federal government expects to collect about $2.5 trillion in individual income taxes in fiscal year 2024. That accounts for nearly half (49%) of its total estimated receipts for the year. The next largest chunk comes from Social Security taxes (including those for disability and retirement programs), which are projected to pull in $1.2 trillion this fiscal year (24%).

By comparison, corporate income taxes are estimated to bring in $612.8 billion, or 12% of this fiscal year’s federal receipts. And excise taxes – which include things like transportation trust fund revenue and taxes on alcohol, tobacco and crude oil – are expected to come to $99.7 billion, or 2% of receipts.

A chart showing that income taxes are the federal government's largest source of revenue.

American tax dollars mostly go to social services. Human services – including education, health, Social Security, Medicare, income security and veterans benefits – together will account for 66% ($4.6 trillion) of federal government spending in fiscal 2024, according to OMB estimates.

An estimated 13% ($907.7 billion) will go toward defense spending. Another 13% ($888.6 billion) will repay net interest on government debt, and 10% ($726.9 billion) will fund all other functions, including energy, transportation, agriculture and more.

A bar chart showing that your tax dollars mostly go to social services.

Related: 6 facts about Americans’ views of government spending and the deficit

The vast majority of Americans e-file their taxes, according to IRS data . In fiscal 2022, 150.6 million individual federal income tax returns were filed electronically, accounting for 94% of all individual filings that year.

A line chart showing that the vast majority of Americans e-file their taxes.

Unsurprisingly, e-filing has become more popular since the turn of the century. Fiscal 2000, the earliest year for which comparable data is available, saw 35.4 million individual income tax returns filed electronically (including those filed over the phone). These accounted for just 28% of individual filings that year.

By fiscal 2005, more than half of individual income tax returns (52%) were filed electronically.

Note: This is an update combining information from two posts originally published in 2014 and 2015.

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Top tax frustrations for Americans: The feeling that some corporations, wealthy people don’t pay fair share

Growing partisan divide over fairness of the nation’s tax system, public has mixed expectations for new tax law, most popular.

About Pew Research Center Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world. It conducts public opinion polling, demographic research, media content analysis and other empirical social science research. Pew Research Center does not take policy positions. It is a subsidiary of The Pew Charitable Trusts .

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Art Research Paper Topics Art is a vast and diverse field with many different styles, mediums, and techniques to explore. As such, there are countless potential research paper topics to choose from when studying art. In this article, we offer a list of relevant and exciting art research paper topics students will find easy to
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Arts-Based Research
Introduction. The term arts-based research is an umbrella term that covers an eclectic array of methodological and epistemological approaches. The key elements that unify this diverse body of work are: it is research; and one or more art forms or processes are involved in the doing of the research.How art is involved varies enormously. It has been used as one of several tools to elicit ...
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FINE ARTS AND ARCHITECTURE: Museum of Old and New Art in Tasmania TOPIC: The Museum of Old and New Art (Mona) in Hobart, Tasmania, has opened a new wing called Pharos. It includes four new works by James Turrell, which use light and color to affect their viewers.
Visual Arts Research
Visual Arts Research provides a forum for historical, critical, cultural, psychological, educational and conceptual research in visual arts and aesthetic education. Unusual in its length and breadth, VAR typically publishes 9-12 scholarly papers per issue and remains committed to its original mission to provide a venue for both longstanding research questions and traditions alongside emerging ...
Arts
Research Topic Ideas; Arts; Find a library guide, database, or FAQ Search. ... Fine Art & Design Topics. Abstract Expressionism; Ai Wei Wei; Animation; Anime / Manga; Art as protest; Art glass; Arts & Crafts movement; Bauhaus; Censorship; ... Comprehensive resource for art information, including articles and indexing of art dissertations & art ...
Frontiers
1 Department of Creative Arts Therapies, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States; 2 Department of Art Education, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, United States; 3 Mary Pappert School of Music and School of Nursing, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States; The purpose of this preliminary qualitative research study is to explore the role and function of multiple ...
What Is Research Art?
Research Art is Everywhere. But Some Artists Do It Better Than Others. The documentation room from Gala Porras-Kim's installation Mediating with the Rain, 2021-, photographs, documents ...
Top Art Research Paper Topic for All Students
The history research paper topics on the art of that century can cover artistic styles. Tell in your art research paper about Romanticism, Neoclassicism, Realism, Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, and Art Nouveau, all developed in the 19th. Each style has its prominent artists whose masterpieces deserve research.
A List of Unique Art Research Paper Topics
Visual Art Research Topics. Painting as pedagogy. Sculpture in the modern age. The creative works of popular artists. Aesthetics of painting: a study of an artist's creations. A comparison of style of different artists. Trends in photography in different generations. Impact of technology on visual art.
Art History Research Paper Topics
100 Art History Research Paper Topics. Art history, as a field of study, covers thousands of years and countless cultures, offering an expansive array of topics for research papers. When embarking on an art history project, you can focus on certain eras, explore individual artists or art movements, investigate the role of art in specific ...
112 Modern Art Essay Topics & Research Titles at StudyCorgi
The book "Modern Art: A Critical Introduction" by Pam Meecham and Julie Sheldon discusses various aspects of the contemporary art and the factors that influence its evolution. Modernism in Hemingway's "Big Two-Hearted River". Hemingway's "Big Two-Hearted River" possesses a number of traits that are characteristic of the ...
arts-based educational research: Topics by Science.gov
Moon, Bruce L.; Hoffman, Nadia. 2014-01-01. This article presents an innovation in art therapy research and education in which art-based performance is used to generate, embody, and creatively synthesize knowledge. An art therapy graduate student's art-based process of inquiry serves to demonstrate how art and performance may be used to ...
80+ Exceptional Research Titles Examples in Different Areas
Examples of Research Topics on Ethics. Enumerate the different ways the government of the United States can reduce deaths arising from the unregulated use of guns. Analyze the place of ethics in medicine or of medical practitioners. For instance, you can discuss the prevalence of physician-assisted suicides in a named country.
Research Methods in the Arts
What would be a hypothetical title for your final paper? Reviewing the Literature. Chapter 4 in: Paulus, Trena M, et al. Digital Tools for Qualitative Research. London, : SAGE Publications Ltd, 2014. ... "Arts-based research is a form of qualitative research in the human studies that employs the premises, procedures, and principles of the arts. ...
Arts, Research, Innovation and Society
Creativity in general and the arts in particular are increasingly recognized as drivers of cultural, economic, political, social, and scientific innovation ...
Student-led Showcase Puts Innovative Art Research on Display at CMU
The Frank-Ratchye STUDIO for Creative Inquiry was created under the Office of the Dean of the College of Fine Arts in 1989. For over 30 years, it has supported boundary-pushing research across the arts, science, technology and culture through artist residencies, courses, event programming, workshops and exhibitions.
Exploring the humanities at Tyson Research Center
The Center for the Humanities in Arts & Sciences at Washington University in St. Louis will present both a performance and a two-day workshop on artistic research at WashU's Tyson Research Center. Organized by postdoctoral researcher Anya Yermakova, the events build on her scholarship, her creative work and her current seminar, "Topics in Embodied Communication: Listening."
Protecting art and passwords with biochemistry
A new molecular test method helps to prove the authenticity of works of art. The new method could also help to make passwords secure against quantum computers. Your source for the latest research news
'The Anxious Eye: German Expressionism and Its Legacy' Review: Decades
A show at Washington's National Gallery of Art highlights how European artists of the early 20th century responded to political upheavals, war and social unrest—drawing discomfiting parallels ...
Two Penn professors named 2024 Guggenheim Fellows
Wale Adebanwi and Deborah A. Thomas, both affiliated with the Department of Africana Studies in the School of Arts & Sciences, have been named 2024 John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation Fellows. Adebanwi and Thomas were among 188 chosen in the United States and Canada chosen from nearly 3,000 applicants working across 52 scholarly disciplines.
The Art of Asking Smarter Questions
As a cofounder and the CEO of the U.S. chipmaker Nvidia, Jensen Huang operates in a high-velocity industry requiring agile, innovative thinking. Reflecting on how his leadership style has evolved ...
7 facts about Americans and taxes
A majority of Americans feel that corporations and wealthy people don't pay their fair share in taxes, according to a Center survey from spring 2023.About six-in-ten U.S. adults say they're bothered a lot by the feeling that some corporations (61%) and some wealthy people (60%) don't pay their fair share.

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