Purpose
The aim of this study is to advance the understanding of the visual in arts-based participatory research, by using the concept of theorizing processes as an analytical lens.
Design/methodology/approach
A secondary data analysis was conducted, using data collected in a qualitative study exploring sustainable living environments for people with mental ill-health.
Findings
The visual allowed for new perspectives to be gained by the process including (1) viewing the visual data, (2) exploring the visual data with words and (3) explaining, recognizing and understanding the insights acquired from the initial visuality.
Originality/value
This study suggests how the use of the visual in participatory art-based qualitative research methods could contribute to the gain of new perspectives. This finding is the contribution of this study to the field of arts and health.