Valda-Christine Glennie |
Nature of Medical Illustration What is a medical illustrator? A medical illustrator is a professional artist with an academic training in human anatomy, physiology, medicine and basic science. In combination with a biomedical training, a medical illustrator is skilled in artistic techniques such as drawing, painting and sculpture. The duality of the profession allows the medical illustrator to offer material to the medical community that is both scientifically accurate and artistically worthy. The medical illustrator's subject matter The subjects of medical illustration are scientifically diverse spanning research and teaching in medicine and the health sciences. Within this diversity it is demanded that the artist have a solid and complete grasp of the subject at hand. It is through a thorough understanding of the subject matter and strong visual communication skills that the artist is able to produce accurate and aesthetic visuals & models used to teach either medical or laypersons. The medical illustrator is therefore a specialized artist with an extensive scientific background and who is well versed in the intricacies of numerous medical specialties. Camera vs. illustration: "Why not photograph the subject"? The medical illustrator is often asked " Why is an illustration necessary? Why not take a photograph of the subject?" In some ways the artist is asked to do what the camera is not able to. The artist is able to omit distracting and unnecessary detail that might obscure the message while key points that are essential are highlighted. The artist is also able to include relevant information that is not visible on the surface and is always developing new techniques and innovative ways to effectively communicate the challenging subject matter. The ability to conceptualize is fundamental to medical illustration. The artist is able to conceptualize imaginary views and is thus able to bring the microscopic world into focus. For the medical artist the camera is a valuable tool, which can be used to attain reference material. However, this material must be interpreted and then communicated. The importance of the audience The medical artist must focus on her/his audience whether it be student, physician or layperson when considering an illustration. This allows her/him to communicate effectively while assessing the level of detail necessary to render the subject matter realistically or to use a gentler approach more suitable for patient education. Sensitivity is therefore key to effective medical illustration, not only must it be scientifically accurate for teaching purposes but also soothing in order to provide vital information to a patient in need. Medical Illustration as a profession Medical illustration can be a challenging and rewarding profession. With a genuine love of both art and science the medical artist is able to express herself/himself creatively while making a valuable contribution to society. It is a demanding career with success depending on dedication, perseverance and most importantly the desire to educate. |
