Science-informed art as a public health strategy: evaluation of an exhibition on high-concentration cannabis.

Collier A.; Giano Z.; Anthony T.; Berry S.; Corbett J.; Tung G. · Arts & health · 2026

**Background & Methods** This mixed-methods evaluation assessed the impact of a science-informed art exhibition on public understanding of high-concentration cannabis (HCC) health risks. Eleven artists participated in a 3-day educational workshop on HCC before creating artwork; data were collected from artists (n=9), exhibition patrons (n=78), and independent art evaluators (n=8) using closed and open-ended survey questions over a 3-day exhibition period. **Key Findings** • Both artists and patrons demonstrated significant increases in HCC knowledge following engagement with the exhibition, indicating that combining artistic expression with evidence-based education effectively conveyed complex public health information about cannabis potency and associated risks. • There was substantial agreement among evaluators regarding which artworks were most educational about HCC; however, consensus was lower for creative quality, suggesting that educational efficacy and artistic creativity represent distinct dimensions that do not necessarily align in science-informed art. • Artist motivation for participation primarily derived from work with youth populations and concerns about HCC harm, while patron attendance was predominantly motivated by personal connections to the gallery, artists, or general community event support rather than specific health interest, though the exhibition generated substantial earned media coverage. **Dosage & Administration** Not reported. **Safety & Adverse Effects** Not reported. **Evidence Quality** This study has notable limitations constraining evidence quality. The small sample sizes (n=9 artists, n=78 patrons, n=8 evaluators) limit generalizability. The lack of a control group prevents attribution of knowledge gains solely to the exhibition, as secular trends or concurrent educational exposure cannot be excluded. Knowledge assessment instruments and their validity are not described. The 3-day timeframe provides only immediate post-exhibition data without follow-up to assess knowledge retention or behavioral changes. Selection bias may be present, as exhibition attendees represent self-selected individuals with pre-existing interest in either art or community engagement. The study represents a qualitative program evaluation rather than a rigorous experimental design, placing it at the lower end of evidence hierarchy. However, the mixed-methods approach and inclusion of multiple stakeholder perspectives (artists, patrons, evaluators) provides useful descriptive data on implementation feasibility and perceived educational value of science-informed art as a public health communication strategy.

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