‘Second star to the right [of the universe], and straight on till morning’: following directions and finding new ones on international journeys in creative research methods

Mannay, Dawn ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7368-4111 2026. ‘Second star to the right [of the universe], and straight on till morning’: following directions and finding new ones on international journeys in creative research methods. Journal of Creative Research Methods 2 (1) , pp. 121-131. 10.1332/30502969Y2026D000000016

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Abstract

This Think Piece considers how we can retain the imagination, innovation and inspiration associated with creative research methods. It reflects on the salience of learning from research journeys so that, rather than residing in a Neverland where we never grow up, the craft of creative research can be developed, adapted and matured. The Think Piece explores the usefulness of creative approaches in study design, and for communicating with participants to ensure ethical practice. It also stresses the importance of acknowledging the epistemological foundations and disciplinary traditions of the creative techniques employed in contemporary studies. There is an engagement with creative data analysis and a focus on the ways in which multimodal forms dissemination can offer accessible and engaging formats for sharing research findings. The Think Piece concludes with an emphasis on the emotional impacts encountered in research journeys, and the need for the creative methods community to be welcoming, inquisitive and generous to each other in following directions and finding new ones that lead beyond the second star to the right [of the universe].

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Schools:	Schools > Social Sciences (Includes Criminology and Education)
Publisher:	Bristol University Press
ISSN:	3050-2969
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	13 February 2026
Date of Acceptance:	4 February 2026
Last Modified:	03 Jun 2026 11:30
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/184761

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