Getting inside outsider art : an integrated framework for analysis of artworks created by individuals with autism and schizophrenia spectrum disorder

Abstract

This study explores artwork created by people with Autism and Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders (ASD, SSD). The main objective is to analyze the specific characteristics of these populations, explore the manifestations of their symptoms and promote well-being through art activities. Outsider Art refers to art produced by individuals who are marginalized from society, including those with mental illnesses and developmental disabilities. Nowadays, the term is used to encompass the work of a diverse group of artists who do not fit within the traditional art world. However, this perspective has often focused solely on the aesthetic attributes of the artworks, leaving a vast body of artworks untapped, which could be used to develop more integrated art-based assessments for neurodivergent individuals.

Since current research lacks personalized analytical frameworks for specific populations, such as those with SSD or ASD. To address this gap, the research aims to develop an analytical framework that covers all these inquiries. Researchers and practitioners can use this framework to achieve a more integrated foundation that considers art-based approaches, aesthetics, and medical perspectives, thereby enabling them to better understand the progress of their clients or patients. The study was guided by the Neurodivergent Paradigm, the Strength-Based Approach and the 4P Medicine model. To achieve the objectives the study adopted a Qualitative lens, Visual Narrative, Arts-Based Research, and a Phenomenological approach. In the exploratory study, thematic qualitative coding was implemented through MAXQDA. For the main study, an analytical framework was developed with three dimensions: (1) adaptation of the rating tools Formal Elements Art Therapy Scale (FEATS) and the Diagnostic Drawing Series (DDS) to measure variables in the artwork; (2) utilization of the theoretical framework of Art Brut and Outsider Art; (3) reference to the DSM-5 to guide the analysis of characteristics and symptoms of both conditions depicted in the artwork. Additionally, other variables were contributed by the researcher after observing systematic flaws and strengths of numerous studies. The developed framework was tested with 100 artworks from 20 individuals with Autism and Schizophrenia who were interested in visual arts and met the criteria.

The research involved artworks sourced from archives of art-based workshops, museums, art collections, and individuals referred by institutions in Mexico, The Netherlands, Japan, and Spain. The selected images met the criteria of being artworks or free-topic art-based assessments created solely by the participants without external help. The findings suggest that there are distinct features and themes that characterize the artworks of individuals with SSD and ASD. The study found that individuals with ASD tended to express themes related to transportation, buildings, and sexuality, while individuals with SSD tended to express religious, romantic, and abstract themes. The research's measurement and theory help guide art-based assessments in a direction that emphasizes the effectiveness of holistic perspectives and the empowerment of vulnerable populations through art. Additionally, social work policies can be restructured to promote community practices and establish art-based activities as a professional practice.