Historically, how did we learn about anatomy?
Anatomists and artists collaborated to investigate the intricate details of the of the human body through dissection, visualising their findings through lavish paintings which ingeniously captured medical knowledge in a visual form. Their observational and perspective anatomical art has enhanced our modern-day accuracy in the depiction of the precise structure and musculature of the human form. Furthermore, their amalgamation of healthcare and humanities has had a subsequent advancement not only in the development of knowledge, but also in our reflections of cultural, political and religious beliefs- bringing a holistic approach into medicine.
Learning anatomy is an art. First demonstrated by da Vinci and Vesalius in the 16th century, it was shown how integral the art of observation is within medicine- a skill that is seldom taught in modern-day medical school. As Blog Director for this year’s Anatomy Society, I will help you develop this fundamental skill, by showing you the beauty of our anatomy through observational drawings.
In line with the Anatomy Society’s revision sessions, I will be releasing pages of my ‘Anatomy Colouring Book’ (please see some of my doodles above!) which will simplify and highlight key ‘textbook facts’ to advance your medical knowledge.
Please join me on this very exciting journey, and I hope I can show you the delicacy of the human body through art.
I look forward to meeting you all through the society.
Charlotte Larkin
(2nd year GKT Medical Student)
Our blog is an open space for all- I would love to receive any submissions (art, poetry, writing etc) to share within our community! Please email me: charlotte.larkin@kcl.ac.uk.
References:
‘Anatomy : Art and Science’ : https://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/objects-and-stories/medicine/anatomy-art-and-science