Visual Narratives and Social Cohesion: The Role of Art History in Promoting Social Inclusion and Belonging

Author First name, Last name, Institution

• Alexandros Argyriadis, Hellenic Mediterranean University
• Agathi Argyriadi, American University in Dubai
• Olga Drakopoulou, University of Patras
• Maria Athanasekou, University of Patras
• Efthymia Efthymiou, Zayed University, Abu Dhabi CampusFollow

Document Type

Book Chapter

Source of Publication

Art History Online Arts Therapy and Experiential Learning in Practice

Publication Date

7-9-2026

Abstract

This chapter examines how art historical visual narratives contribute to the promotion of social inclusion and the development of collective belonging across historical and cultural contexts. Drawing on interdisciplinary perspectives from art history, social psychology, and cultural studies, the chapter explores how visual representations have historically mediated social identities, reinforced or challenged dominant ideologies, and provided symbolic spaces for marginalized voices. From religious iconography and civic monuments to modern and contemporary socially engaged art, visual narratives are analyzed as mechanisms through which societies negotiate difference, solidarity, and shared values. Particular emphasis is placed on theories of social identity, collective memory, and visual culture to explain how artworks foster emotional resonance and shared understanding among diverse groups. The chapter further examines the pedagogical and community-based applications of art history as a tool for cultivating empathy, intercultural dialogue, and inclusive social practices.

DOI Link

10.4018/979-8-3373-8552-5.ch006

ISBN

[9798337385525, 9798337385549]

Publisher

IGI Global Scientific Publishing

First Page

149

Last Page

171

Disciplines

Education

Keywords

Narrative (0.67) | Sociology (0.67) | Iconography (0.46) | Visual culture (0.45) | Negotiation (0.45) | Cohesion (chemistry) (0.44) | Social relation (0.43) | Aesthetics (0.41) | Inclusion (mineral) (0.4) | Social change (0.35) | Social identity theory (0.33) | Social psychology (0.31) | Gender studies (0.31) | Social dialogue (0.28) | Epistemology (0.27) | Promotion (chess) (0.27) | Norm (philosophy) (0.26) | Social engagement (0.25) | Social group (0.25)

Scopus ID

105045429328

Recommended Citation

Argyriadis, Alexandros; Argyriadi, Agathi; Drakopoulou, Olga; Athanasekou, Maria; and Efthymiou, Efthymia, "Visual Narratives and Social Cohesion: The Role of Art History in Promoting Social Inclusion and Belonging" (2026). All Works. 8317.
https://zuscholars.zu.ac.ae/works/8317

Indexed in Scopus

yes

Open Access

no