Instead of only discussing, participants conducted research – with their bodies:
Scenes were performed, tensions were made visible through tableaux, and implicit dynamics were reflected upon. In this way, emotional, relational, and often unspoken dimensions of Citizen Science became tangible and experiential.
Our aim was to demonstrate how the body itself can become an instrument of knowledge – and how Arts-Based Research can expand Citizen Science projects, especially in contexts where linguistic or formal approaches present barriers.
The evaluation clearly showed the potential of these approaches, for example:
• as a powerful team exercise at the beginning of a project to make expectations and attitudes visible
• to make group dynamics and “collective intelligence” tangible
• to enable alternative, non-verbal forms of knowledge generation
And yes – it requires openness and willingness to engage.
Precisely for that reason, the feedback was especially encouraging: these methods can also be tested with target groups that may initially be hesitant toward innovative formats. They can open up new pathways – particularly where traditional formats reach their limits.
Citizen Science thrives on diversity. Perhaps it also thrives on the courage to embody it.
