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

Abstract

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.