Film-based Creative Arts Enquiry: Qualitative Researchers as Auteurs

Abstract

Purpose – Inspired by an exciting revival of interest in the working methods and processes of the creative arts, the purpose of this paper is to make use of the auteur approach to film production, to further develop knowledge about sensuous methodologies in qualitative research. Design/methodology/approach – An exegesis of the authors’ particular experiences in producing and disseminating a short documentary film is used to construct a framework from which to analyse affective modes of engagement within the parameters of qualitative research. Findings – Qualitative researchers are characterised as creative artists who bring their precise aesthetic choice to bear on an audience through a mix of technical competence, distinguishable personality and interior meaning. Practical implications – One way for qualitative research to have affective impact is to use the working methods and procedures of the creative arts. Social implications – A research culture is required where risk is permissible and engagement with the creative arts is given greater recognition in future qualitative projects. Originality/value – As a mode of creative arts enquiry, film making can allow a degree of the emotional meaning and feeling within a study to come through into the analysis and the viewer's/reader's affective experience. This is often difficult to come by in more scientifically-driven research approaches.