Drawing: A Dialogue across Disciplines

Abstract

There are many examples of a cross pollination between those involved in the arts and in the field of health care. This fruitful dialogue has resulted in the production of impressive artwork across many genres and given opportunities for the development of collaborative projects. Although advanced technologies have become more prevalent in clinics, wards and operating theatres, drawing activities continue to be a significant means of recording observations, communication and planning as well as a methodology for teaching and learning. Interdisciplinary creative projects reveal the continued importance of drawing as a central, primal activity both as part of a purposeful dialogue and also as a useful tool to encourage active participation in teaching and learning. Other studies continue to show drawing activities to be an excellent tool for developing skills in observation and communication, useful for improving the physical and psychological support for individual patients.