The art hive as a ‘frame of belonging’ for older adults

Community leisure spaces play a critical role in supporting belonging, which, in turn, has a buffering effect on loneliness and social isolation for older adults. This study explored the role of art hives in contributing to belonging for older adults. Typically located in storefronts, subsidized housing, libraries, and museums, art hives are community spaces where everyone, particularly individuals prone to exclusion, are welcomed to make art and connect with others. Findings highlight participants’ need for welcoming social spaces where they connect with people who care about them and suggest the value of such spaces extends beyond leisure activities happening within. The democratic nature of art hives contributed to participants’ feelings of shared ownership and collective responsibility for hospitality. These findings advance our thinking about belonging and provide support for the creation of community leisure spaces that support older adults to engage in regular and meaningful social interactions around shared interests.