What the study found
The article argues that integrating arts-based research into hydrogeology may broaden how groundwater is represented and understood. It introduces “groundwater-connected art” as a way to connect science with people, place, and other disciplines.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors say groundwater problems remain despite decades of research, and the study suggests scientific methods alone may be insufficient to inspire the emotional, cultural, and community connections needed for change. The findings indicate that arts-based research could strengthen participatory, community-engaged, and socio-hydrogeology approaches to groundwater.
What the researchers tested
This is a perspective article, not a test of a single experiment. The author proposes integrating arts-based research into hydrogeology through drama, visual art, storytelling, and music, and draws on examples from artistic practices and related disciplines that have used arts-based research.
What worked and what didn't
The article presents arts-based research as a way to bridge gaps across disciplines and to highlight the cultural and relational dimensions of groundwater. It also notes challenges, including questions of role, rigor, ethics, and positionality, but does not report experimental results.
What to keep in mind
The abstract does not describe empirical data, measurements, or a formal evaluation of outcomes. The claims are proposals and arguments within a perspective article, and the available summary does not provide specific limitations beyond the challenges named by the author.
Key points
- The article proposes integrating arts-based research into hydrogeology.
- It introduces the idea of “groundwater-connected art” as process and expression.
- The authors say scientific methods alone may not be enough to build needed emotional, cultural, and community connections.
- The paper highlights arts forms including drama, visual art, storytelling, and music.
- It notes challenges around role, rigor, ethics, and positionality.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Arts-based research may enrich hydrogeology engagement
- Authors:
- Tom Gleeson
- Institutions:
- University of Victoria
- Publication date:
- 2026-04-01
- OpenAlex record:
- View
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