Arts-based knowledge translation in aerial silk to promote epilepsy awareness

Arts-based knowledge translation (ABKT) strategies represent an innovative approach to disseminate results of qualitative studies, especially to tackle social issues, such as stigma and prejudice, due to knowledge gaps. Epilepsy affects 1% of the world population and brings a strong psychosocial impact to the patient, family members, and caregivers. People with epilepsy have difficulties to establish social relationships due to stigma.

In this study, we narrate the construction of an aerial and contemporary dance based on the results of a qualitative study with patients with epilepsy, their families, and health professionals, called "'Dialogue with Emotions' to overcome barriers and to improve quality of life in epilepsy". Under the ABKT classification, this study is defined as a strategy of subjective key messages, which are presented as active performances (contemporary dance and aerial acrobacies).

In this sense, the choreography called "Perspective" presented elements that relate to suffering, pain, fear, social isolation, followed by mutual support, resilience, adaptation, and happiness. Through its scenic poetry and acrobatics combined with special lighting effect and soundtrack, this choreography represents the potential to overcome suffering and experience happiness if people embrace a different perspective over epilepsy.

This presentation conveyed perceptions on epilepsy in a way to create an experience for its audience. It represented an opportunity to stimulate reflection, discussion, and knowledge construction between members of the academy, as well as patients and caregivers. Thus, this artistic presentation was able to promote discussions about epilepsy, disseminating research results, promoting empathy and compassion.