Depiction of diseases, anatomy, medical practices and surgical procedures has been around since antiquity. Not only has medical illustration evolved over the centuries, in parallel with the scientific discoveries and advances in the medical field – it has played the role of historian, documenting the beliefs and knowledge of its time. Today, medical illustration is as present as ever – despite the advent of other methods of medical documentation, including photography and videography.

Most physicians draw. We are not all artists, but we often use pictures instead of thousands of words – whether to explain medical concepts to students or procedures to patients. Cultural, language and educational barriers may hinder verbal communication, and the use of simplified diagrams can enhance patients’ understanding of their medical condition. Of course, not all sketches are created equal; but just as medical students can be taught how to communicate better with patients and colleagues, so too can the rudiments of sketching be acquired, regardless of whether one has an innate talent.

This semester-long PLME course is open to undergraduate students at Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), and includes lectures on arts and medicine, drawing instruction, invited lectures by medical illustrators, in-class exercises and field trips to the RISD Nature Lab and the hospital (operating room at Rhode Island Hospital).

Click here to see a detailed overview of the course or peruse a list of relevant references and resources. If you want to leave a comment or have a questions, please contact us.