This project challenges traditional cognition-based research methods. While informative, they do not fully capture the complexity of economic transformation. This hinders our ability to support regenerative entrepreneurs in their journey toward a fair and sustainable economy. At AUAS Centre for Economic Transformation, our search for a more integrative approach to building new business models, led us to arts- and nature-based research.

We are intrigued by art- and nature-based research as a tool to integrate cognitive, emotional and practical elements (head/ heart/ hands). Our curiosity led us to the following research question: how can innovative methodologies that focus on lessons from the arts (creativity) and nature (diversity) help to enrich the understanding of economic transformation among researchers and entrepreneurs engaged in regenerative practices.

This study employs an action-oriented research approach, including progressive learning and reflective monitoring and evaluation. During workshops the researchers and entrepreneurs go outside and collect pieces of nature. With these materials they compose their own work of art. Participants, under guidance, step-by-step, 'engage in dialogue' with their artwork based on their own question, eventually experiencing (a direction to) an answer.

This project brings together researchers with expertise in the diverse fields of entrepreneurship, craftsmanship, co-ownership and economic ecosystems and entrepreneurs of regenerative practices. They emerge themselves in innovative research methods aimed at integrating head, heart, and hands to enhance diversity and creativity and enrich their understanding of economic transformation.

The presentation will be enriched by the works of Claudy Jongstra, a Dutch artist and regenerative entrepreneur.