Start at Belonging is a series of illustrated poetic dialogues, exploring artistic practice as a mode of inquiry, a tool for self-expression, and a bridge for understanding young-onset Parkinson’s disease and other chronic illnesses. This work highlights the relational nature of illness—how it is shaped by language, culture, and the spaces we inhabit.
With guided prompts and an invitation to complete a creative dialogue, this book is a valuable resource for anyone navigating their own chronic illness or supporting a loved one to do so, as well as artists, researchers, and health professionals.
An anthology of research and personal poetry arranged in constellations of experience. Written by Tara Coleman with illustrations by Amy Melchior. Coming late 2025 in collaboration with Atuanui Press.
Our Field Notes series is a collection of short and informal notes from the field reflecting on the experience of researching Parkinson’s. Topics covered range from poetic inquiry to stigma and support. The series connects the act of doing research with the need for awareness of the key challenges faced by people with Parkinson’s, linking fieldwork to listening, reflecting and understanding.
Introduces arts-based research as a powerful way to explore and communicate lived experience through artistic expression, making research more accessible, emotional, and inclusive.
Explains poetic inquiry as a transformative methodology that uses poetry to analyze and share lived experience, especially in health, disability, and social justice research.
Shares a curated list of standout academic articles on poetic inquiry and arts-based research, offering informal summaries and reflections on their significance and use.
Discusses the hidden symptoms of Parkinson’s, how they affect daily life, and how poetry can help give voice and visibility to these internal, often misunderstood experiences.
Focuses on the need for meaningful support for people with Parkinson’s and highlights the role of stigma, misunderstanding, and lack of services in shaping their daily challenges.
Highlights the importance of lived experience and the role poetry and art can play in uncovering the nuanced and layered nature of illness when ordinary language falls short
A printable series of guided writing prompts to support reflection, emotional expression, and personal storytelling through illness. These worksheets are designed with care for those living with Parkinson’s and others navigating uncertainty, loss, or chronic health conditions. Also suitable for caregivers, writing group facilitators, and therapists.
