The Jay-Canvas Artboard Approach: an innovative arts-based research method.

Why you should read this article: • To examine a new successfully used arts-based research method that has not yet been made known • To recognise the need for arts-based research methods that promote social justice • To explore a new research method that other researchers can now use. Background: There is an increasing need to develop innovative ways of collecting data that empower vulnerable people, such as those who use mental health services. Aim: To describe a novel, arts-based research method called the Jay-Canvas Artboard Approach (Jay-CAA), which involves a group collectively writing short descriptions on a canvas artboard about their experiences. Discussion: The authors asked participants in two studies to use coloured pens to write decorative comments on shared canvas artboards. They then analysed this data using thematic analysis. Conclusion: The Jay-CAA enabled the creation and collection of data in a time-effective way that was unproblematic for recruiting and retaining participants. Implications for practice: The Jay-CAA method enables research participants to summarise and express their experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]