To See Who I Am: An Arts-Based Research Project on the Identity Formation of a Spiritual Care Practitioner

Abstract

Research on the identity formation of spiritual care practitioners has been based primarily in the field of Christian theology, using Biblical models and sources. In our increasingly secular-humanist, multi-faith society, alternate approaches to research in this area are needed. The aim of this research paper was to explore how art making paired with reflective writing might function as a pathway to identity formation in spiritual care practitioners. Using an arts-based research methodology and methods, the author engaged the primary research question stated as: How might visual art practice in(form) the identity formation of a spiritual care practitioner? Employing a set of metaphorical statements as catalysts for visual explorations, the author created a mantle and a series of ceramic bowls. She engaged literature from religious and cultural sources and reflected upon the process of making the objects. She identified emerging themes related to her personal and professional identities and integrated her findings with her own spiritual care practice. Results are presented in written and visual formats and suggest a viable, alternative approach to research in this area.