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Contribution short abstract:

This research explores the use of arts-based methods to address coloniality, faith, and power. A lament workshop demonstrated how creative tools like scriptural reflection and artistic expression can tackle complex themes, foster safe and meaningful dialogue, and inspire transformative action.

Contribution long abstract:

This research examines the integration of arts-based methods into religions and development research, emphasising their transformative potential in addressing themes of coloniality, decolonisation, and power dynamics. Employing participatory action research, the study conducted a lament workshop with practitioners from diverse global backgrounds, exploring lament as both a theological and creative tool to foster dialogue between Global South and Global North practitioners in Christian development organisations. The workshop, centred on Psalm 10, combined scriptural reflection with creative practices, inviting participants to engage in activities such as writing, painting, drawing and collaging to honestly and authentically express their emotional responses to injustices within their organisational context. This creative engagement provided a space for deep reflection on systemic inequities and their impact, culminating in the composition of lament prayers that articulated participants’ honest experiences and aspirations for change.

The creative outputs and prayers, collected anonymously, were analysed for emerging themes, which were subsequently shared during an online reflection forum. This process highlighted the potential of creative methodologies to facilitate critical reflection, emotional healing, and actionable insights. By fostering a collaborative and reflective environment, the workshop underscored the value of integrating arts-based approaches into religions and development research. The findings underscore the potential of such methodologies to address complex and difficult themes, provide a safe space for meaningful dialogue and ultimately inspire transformative action.