All styles of illustration are provided for, from full colour highly detailed to half tone or black and white. Subject matter ranges from anatomical, clinical, pathological and surgical illustration to the more conceptual illustrations required for portraying cellular and molecular activity. Images may be created for professional and patient education, sales and product launch material, and may be used in publishing, advertising and marketing.
A number of artists work in traditional media, while a large proportion of artwork is produced digitally. Sophisticated software packages give the artist the facility to create a full range of illustration styles with the added benefit of speed and flexibility within their work.
With the widespread use of web and multimedia, animation is fast becoming an integral part of a medical artists skill base. Animations can be created in two-dimensions from existing artwork to create a more eye catching graphic, or to convey, for example, a surgical concept or mode of action more effectively than illustration alone. Alternatively, three-dimensional animation can be used to create engaging visual effects and to model objects that can be ‘turned around’ to show clearly complex anatomy or a medical product design feature. Animations may be produced for education, advertising, sales and marketing and output for web, CD-Rom or video.
Medical model making
This is an area where a number of our members apply their creative skills, knowledge of anatomy and understanding of the three dimensional form. Medical artists produce medical, anatomical and surgical models and simulators, which are used for medical education and surgical training. These artists are skilled in modelling, casting and mould making using materials such as clay, plaster, resins and silicones. They are creative in their use and development of new materials to ensure realistic simulation of bodily tissues. Models are primarily produced for medical device manufacturing companies, teaching hospitals and university medical schools.
Facial reconstruction is the rebuilding of an individual’s face onto the skull requiring of the artist a comprehensive knowledge of head and neck anatomy and an understanding of facial contours and characteristics. A full range of practical skills in model making materials and techniques is essential. Facial reconstruction was initially developed as a vehicle for identification of murder victims, however it is also become used to build representations of historical characters from their archaeological specimens.
facial photo comparison
Facial photo-comparison is a technique that assesses information in the form of CCTV or still images and compares offenders with suspects. A high degree of observational skill, anatomical knowledge and understanding of the facial form is required. The Crown Prosecution Service, defence solicitors and the police employ experts in this field.
Design and multimedia
A number of artists choose to draw on the other creative skills they have gained to offer a wider range of services to the healthcare market. Many are skilled in graphic design and new media technologies and offer, for example, design for promotional and educational literature, PowerPoint or Flash presentations, website design and interactive CD-Rom creation.
Through their training a number of medical artists have gained the skills fundamental to carrying out a scientific research programme. Some are continuing research into facial morphology, anthropology, recognition, identification and facial reconstruction.