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Abstract
Using a phenomenological qualitative research design guided by the Reflective Lifeworld Research (RLR) approach developed by Dahlberg, Dahlberg, & Nystrom (2008), this study investigated how participants experienced a mindfulness-based program at an art museum. Despite increasing numbers of programs like this and interest in museum visitor experiences, there is very little research that addresses this topic. The RLR approach determined the theoretical framework, as well as methodology for gathering, analyzing, and reporting data. RLR is guided, first and foremost, by an attitude of “sensitive openness” which requires a “purposeful leaving aside of expectations and assumptions so that the phenomenon and its meaning can show itself and, perhaps, surprise its researchers” (Dahlberg et al, 2008, p. 96).Data for the study included 12 interviews with Morning Mindfulness (MM) participants who were invited to talk about their experience during semi-structured interviews, 38 anonymously written accounts submitted via an online form, and 16 observations which resulted in detailed fieldnotes, as well as my bridling journal. This data was then analyzed using a whole-parts-whole approach as described by Dahlberg et al (2008) which was a process that happened in cycles moving from viewing the whole of data to viewing parts and back again. Analysis led to a rich description of the phenomenon and revealed the essential meaning structure of the phenomenon. This structure is described as “Being present with reveals opportunities for engagements that are illuminating, transformative, and connective” and is further elucidated by its three constituents: Finding respite in a special time and place, Embracing the experience, art, and people, and A moving discovery. Based on findings, this research study concludes that mindfulness offers a vital and profound way of being present in an art museum because it supports opportunities for participants to deeply engage with museums, art and fellow humans in profound personal and interpersonal ways that can be understood as connective, illuminating, and transformative.