Sensorial Contemporary Arts, Mindfulness and Play for Children's Post-Pandemic Recovery – Qualitative Evaluation of The Children's Sensorium

Abstract

‘The Children's Sensorium – art, play and mindfulness for post-pandemic recovery’ was an exhibition that brought together sensory-based art installations featuring First Nations Connection to Country with mindfulness and embodiment strategies to enhance well-being for children (ages 4–11). As the COVID-19 pandemic slowly moves from the centre of public attention, we are starting to gauge the impact of the world's longest lockdown in Melbourne, Australia, on children's well-being and resilience. ‘The Children's Sensorium’ exhibition was created with children and their well-being in mind. In this article, we focus on insights from the exhibition evaluation and address the ways artistic and sensory-based mindful engagement can support children's well-being and resilience. Evaluation of The Sensorium exhibition provides a view into the potential of sensory-based artworks to create a stimulating environment, positive emotions, mindful awareness of their senses and the environment and a sense of playful agency for children. The Sensorium provoked a fresh way of thinking about art exhibitions for children: one that centred a child-friendly, strength-based artistic space where children felt agency to be creative and explore the complexity of their emotions, hopes and fears in the wake of the global pandemic.