Anatomy Drawing: Dissecting the Impact of Art in Medicine

Introduction: Many studies have examined the role of medical humanities in processing overall academic and emotional experiences, but few have studied the impact of visual art on human body dissection reflection. At the Duke University School of Medicine, the Anatomy Drawing Program, which has had over 150 participants in the past 7 years, invites healthcare students to learn and apply art while reflecting on their emotions and experiences associated with human body dissection. Methods: In the 2022–2023 year, 29 medical, physician assistant, and pathologists’ assistant students participated in six sessions of guest speaker lectures, art lessons, and donor anatomical drawing. An end-of-program survey examined perspectives on human body dissection, anatomy, art, wellness, and interprofessional relationships. Themes within these responses were analyzed. Results: Twenty-one out of 29 participants consented to having the survey responses analyzed. Analysis revealed five themes: the Anatomy Drawing Program’s positive impact on wellness, ability to process human body dissection, opportunity to express creativity, appreciation of anatomical details, and benefits of interprofessional interactions. Discussion: Providing time and space for artistic expression in the context of anatomical education may be beneficial for reflective processing. This is not limited to human body dissection, as the intersection between art and medicine can play various roles in overall trainee education, wellness, and skill development. A humanistic approach in healthcare curricula is invaluable for the formation of well-rounded medical professionals.

Duke Scholars

Author Leonard Edward White Neurology, General & Community Neurology

Author Emma Fixsen Dermatology