This presentation documents a practice-based animation research project designed for and installed in a healthcare environment to explore the potential role for animation to enhance well-being in paediatric hospital waiting spaces.
Supported by theoretical and practical approaches, we will reflect on practice, process, impact and outcomes. Examining the role of animated imagery as an expanded practice, combining aesthetic and psychological research to produce outputs with purpose and function. We present a case study that developed content collaboratively with psychology experts, to address anxiety issues and tested it within the specific context of children’s hospital waiting areas. The knowledge gained in visual, auditory, and haptic sensations aims to contribute significantly to animation studies, broadening its role in visual communication. While existing research identifies the therapeutic value of static art and views of nature in reducing stress and supporting recovery, the psychological and emotional potential of animated installations remains underexplored, lacking evidence-based studies.
Addressing this gap, this study evaluates the impact of animated pieces installed in paediatric hospital waiting areas. This project builds on a pilot study by Sefcic- Vidakovic that revealed limitations in current projection technologies, and references Ulrich and Gilpin’s work on the healing potential of natural imagery; Chen’s insights into interactive installations in hospitals; and Marks’ concept of “the Haptic Eye”, linking vision, sensation, and immersive engagement.
The research team will present the interdisciplinary framework that integrated animation, psychology, and collaborative design and how it developed its tests and animated installation solutions, emphasizing the non-verbal dimensions of sensory engagement. By combining visual research with psychological evaluation methods, the project generates new insights into the use of non-verbal art in a therapeutic context. By exploring the potential of this cross and interdisciplinary study we aim to contribute to knowledge and improve healthcare environments for patients and their accompanying family or caregivers.
The core project team includes Dr. Lea Vidakovic, an award winning multimedia artist, animation film director, researcher and educator; Dr. Natalie Woolf an internationally exhibited Artist/Educator/Researcher working in expanded drawing
and former consultant in Public Arts Practice; Dr. Pedro Serrazina, award winning animation director, researcher and educator; Dr. Art. Melinda Sefcic, assistant professor ALU Zagreb and Psychology team partners from Universidade Lusófona de Lisboa: Dr. Ana Beato, Dr. Ana Loureiro and Dr. Isabel Santos.