Art as a method of research

The fact that art, images, drawing, and the use of expressive materials feature strongly in the lives of young children scarcely requires confirmation, yet it is borne out by numerous studies and the everyday observations of early childhood education practitioners. Nevertheless, realising the full potential of the artistic dimension - which is so specific to human development - is quite a different matter. In this chapter, we explore the value of the artistic and expressive medium for children and adults in research, first in general, then as a resource for enhancing communication and relationships, and finally as a domain of inquiry and discovery that can span a diverse range of disciplinary areas.