Emerging possibilities Co-creative art processes with advanced cancer patients: integrating experiences of contingency into the life narrative

This thesis investigates how advanced cancer patients integrate experiences of contingency into their life narratives, mainly focusing on the process of co-creation in the "In Search of Stories" (ISOS) project. Experiences of contingency, such as a cancer diagnosis, disrupt patients' sense of self and coherence in their life narrative, necessitating their integration to restore meaning and understanding. The ISOS project involved 25 patients working with spiritual counsellors and professional artists, engaging in activities such as filling out the RE-LIFE questionnaire, creating and reflecting on Rich Pictures, and co-creating a work of art.
The research explores whether co-creation supports the integration of experiences of contingency, using the theoretical framework of Ricoeur's Mimesis theory, which explains how life narratives develop, and Rosa's Resonance theory, which focuses on relationships and interactions between people and their environment. The findings revealed that the co-creation process facilitates integration through four phases: 1.Art communications, 2.Element compilation, 3.Consolidation, and 4.Reflection. A pivotal point in this process is self-transcendence, where patients surpass the boundaries of their former life narratives.
Resonance relationships, characterized by being affected, self-efficacy, and adaptive transformation, were found to be crucial in co-creation. These resonance relationships enabled patients to practice with uncontrollability while reflecting on their experiences of contingency. The artwork served as a medium for patients to express their ultimate life goals and experiences of contingency. The thesis concludes that focusing on life goals, resonance relationships, and the role of uncontrollability during co-creation can support the integration of experiences of contingency, helping patients find new meaning.