Research becomes more meaningful when people actively help shape it rather than merely being its subject. Five years of co-creative research by sociologist Fabian Holle with queer refugees in the Netherlands shows that art, storytelling and collaboration can generate new knowledge, strengthen communities and foster mutual understanding.
The research was carried out as part of the LIMBO project, a five-year co-creative research initiative that brought together queer refugees, artists and community organisers. Holle explains: 'The project explored how the experiences, creativity and knowledge of queer refugees can contribute to both academic research and society. Creative methods such as poetry, collage, photography, drag, performance and storytelling were central to this process.'
Co-Creative Research Generates New Knowledge
The study’s main conclusion is that research gains in both quality and significance when people are not only the focus of research but also actively involved in shaping, making decisions about and participating in it. 'By working alongside queer refugees, we uncovered insights that would most likely have remained hidden through more traditional research methods,' says Holle. 'Art, storytelling and creative collaboration proved to be not only powerful ways of sharing experiences, but also effective means of generating new knowledge, building trust and strengthening communities.'
At the same time, the research demonstrates that this approach requires time, care, mutual trust and ongoing dialogue. 'Co-creative research is certainly not the easiest route,' Holle adds, 'but it is a way of recognising the knowledge and creativity of people who are too often viewed solely through the lens of vulnerability.'
Relevance for Research and Society
The findings are relevant to researchers, policymakers, artists, civil society organisations and anyone working with refugees or other groups that are frequently marginalised. According to Holle, difference need not be an obstacle to collaboration. 'When people are given the time and space to meet, share their stories and create something together, difference can become a source of new insights rather than a barrier.'
The co-creative approach developed within the LIMBO project offers practical guidance for research, higher education, and the cultural and social sectors. Holle: 'It demonstrates how safe and democratic spaces can be created in which people collaborate across diverse backgrounds—indeed, because of those differences—to develop new knowledge, deepen mutual understanding and build stronger communities.'
Five Years of Qualitative Fieldwork
The research is based on more than five years of qualitative fieldwork. In addition to creative workshops, the study included in-depth interviews, field observations, and the analysis of conversations, reflections and artworks. Several participants also contributed as co-authors of chapters in the dissertation, ensuring that knowledge was developed, analysed and shared collaboratively throughout the research process.