This book brings together a leading team of international experts in arts and global development to showcase effective practice and to explore how this vibrant interdisciplinary field has developed and what the latest research can teach us.
Although arts play a central role in human development, and in the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities, few have attempted to comprehensively explore arts practice as global development. This Handbook first provides a theoretical framework for exploring arts and global development, before surveying a comprehensive range of art forms and development practices to explore the potential of the arts to strategically and beneficially contribute to more just and equitable conditions for communities across the globe. Stretching across the arts from theatre, dance, and music to poetry, film, and visual arts, the book covers topics as diverse as health, education, peacebuilding, livelihoods, sustainability, activism, and arts as research method in programming. The Handbook also identifies gaps in the literature, pointing towards the most pressing and promising avenues for further research over the next few years.
This book will be an essential resource for any researcher, student, or practitioner wishing to understand the role of the arts in global development and in the global south more generally.
Although this handbook primarily targets scholars, cultural workers, and development professionals, it remains accessible to anyone interested in the arts’ role in fostering empathy and resilience. With a global array of case studies, the contributors reveal how music, theater, dance, and other art forms can galvanize communities, promote healing in post-conflict contexts, and address urgent social challenges. The editors skillfully integrate theoretical insights with practical examples, offering a nuanced view of both the potential and complexities of arts-based initiatives.
In a world increasingly faced with social upheaval and environmental crises, the insights gathered in this handbook are especially timely. Each chapter demonstrates how artistic interventions transcend language barriers, spur cultural dialogue, and spark innovative problem-solving. Whether employing street theater to raise public health awareness or using participatory music workshops to bridge generational gaps, the case studies highlight that the arts are far more than a cultural accessory—they are a vital tool in sustainable development. These projects champion inclusivity, empathy, and collaboration, reminding us of the powerful role creative expression plays in fostering a healthier, more cohesive society.