CREATIVE PIECE: The Power of Human Connection in Healing.
My painting represents the power of human connection through the arts and the importance of flourishing in both medical education and practice. As a medical student I have begun to explore how I can integrate creative art-forms into my medical journey as I have learnt that working creativity can have a profound impact on patient well-being which is emphasised here.
From a clinical perspective, the left hand alludes to the physical body through the visual imagery of tendons and arteries but can also be seen as symbolic of what is beneath our skin and the part of us deep within. As it reaches out to the right hand that metaphorically represents flourishing through the imagery of butterflies and flowers, the painting emphasises the need for spreading compassion to grow and develop as individuals which is highlighted further by the rose, a symbol of love. The two hands can be interpreted as different people reaching outwards to develop themselves through the support of each other or as both hands representing one person who is trying to connect the two sides of themselves (physical and mental.)
An alternative interpretation could be that the left hand represents a patient reaching out to their doctor which depicts how patients reach out for empathy and kindness to connect with their doctors during consultations. This highlights the importance of holistic care in medicine as doctors can often focus on the physical symptoms of a patient whilst paying less attention to their mental wellbeing. Therefore, the hands symbolise the power of human connections, not only in healing and nurturing in our daily lives but also in clinical practice.
Ultimately, this painting is a visual reminder that I should be compassionate towards myself. In times of difficulty, I should reach out for help from others and that can allow me to develop as an individual. As a medical student, it reminds me of the need for compassion with patients, to see them not only by their disease but also from a human perspective and always offer my compassion and empathy. Especially in the recent difficult times of the pandemic, considering the human dimension in medicine is vital in caring for patient’s well-being. It is essential for healthcare professionals to have compassion in their consultations to gain a deeper understanding of the lived experiences of a patient as I believe that people become stronger when they share their stories and especially when they feel heard.
I hope that any individual but particularly doctors and medical students, that see my painting will be able to feel the warmth I felt when painting it and see the need for spreading love and compassion in healthcare or even just in our daily lives.