“These are so pretty!  It’s hard to believe what absolute ugliness they represent!”

I received this comment in an email recently and would like to use it as a way to discuss the contrast between the visual aspects of my paintings and the factual “ugliness” of the diseases that I often depict. ( I would also love to hear your thoughts – so please expound in the comments section!)

Occasionally I am asked to render tissues depicting pathology or anatomical abnormalities in my paintings.   Above is a set of female reproductive pathology paintings that I was recently commissioned to create for the president elect of the College of American Pathologists.   From left to right they are: Endometrial Hyperplasia, Clear Cell Adenocarcinoma, Malignant Struma Ovarii.

Obviously, these subjects represent the cause of suffering and pain.   How is it that we can find pleasure in images of disease?   What purpose does this type of art serve?

First, art in and of itself serves a different purpose for each of its viewers.  Many people may not know what part of anatomy they are “seeing” when they view one of my paintings, but they are certainly capable of enjoying it, and/or judging it.  Most of us judge art based first on the artistic “qualities” of the painting (and second on its content). By doing so, feelings are addressed, “this color is very soothing”, “these dark forms seem foreboding” or “the lack of distinguishable shapes is very confusing”.  A work of art has the ability to call to mind our experiences, thoughts and feelings through its various qualities.  I strive to use those artistic tools in order to offer the viewer a specific or certain type of feeling.  In the case of pathologies, my goal is always to offer a glimpse of hope or calm for the viewer.

"Diverticulosis"

Secondly, by rendering pathology of a certain system, tissue or organ we are exposing it- forcing the subject into the open.  You are seeing it up-close and personal.   Through my art I hope to “jump start” discussion, therefore bringing certain issues and problems to the forefront of our consciousness.  So, since I don’t have colored ribbons to represent all of these diseases, I will rely on inquisition and interest in my work to spread the word about the diseases depicted; therefore promoting research and cures.

www.diagnosisart.com has other important purposes which I will express in a future blog post! stay tuned!

interpretation of a coronal CT scan through the face

A mere 8 hours ago I announced on Facebook my intention to begin blogging today.  I am proud to say that have thought of backing out ONLY three times!  Yay for me-  only three procrastination excuses when I could have thought of at LEAST ten!

My first excuse was going to be “my awful head cold/sore throat etc…”  but then I realized that I had already spent over a hour on FB scouring the New Years posts and pictures- why couldn’t I spend that much time typing something?

Second excuse was going to be that my sister is in town and I wouldn’t have time.   Well, it is 4:54 and we have said our goodbyes- that leaves a good 4-5 hours before I am really ready for bed.

Third excuse was going to be that I am not a great writer anyway and who the hell is going to read my thoughts and care in the least? ….  maybe I could just go back, “delete post” and no one would be the wiser.  (this was the low point in my defeatist rampage)

What I decided after my third attempt at “quitting” was that blogging didn’t have to be perfect, it wouldn’t have to make people laugh and/or cry.  It could just be like painting is for me, therapeutic, eye-opening, inspiring, fulfilling.  There are inspired moments in art and there are downright discouraging ones.  That’s life, right?  I shouldn’t take it so seriously. I mean it is a fairly ridiculous word in the first place.. “blogging”  ”blogger” “blogosphere”  pretty silly.

My name is Penny Oliver and I am the artist at DiagnosisART!  I create custom original anatomy paintings based on diagnostic imagery, histologic slides, surgical procedures and general anatomy!

My paintings will spark creativity and lend a personal touch to your environment!  The processes, patterns and forms of our inner selves mimic the natural world.  When recreated on canvas these visions lend a feeling of peace and comfort to any space.

If you are a physician, a nurse, researcher or clinician, you will not only understand the substance of this art, but you will be excited about the dynamic presentation of it! DiagnosisART! will remind you why you chose this profession!  It will inspire you to continue to follow your passions and be proud of your past achievements!

By working one-on-one with my clients,  I am able to gather a perspective of the human body that goes beyond the surface!  For each painting, I research the subject matter in terms of its function, its anatomy and the diseases that affect that particular system or organ.  Each painting is a labor of love for myself and the clients who commission them. It is my great desire to capture the essence of each subject and convey a healing message. Even when depicting diseased specimen, I seek to find peace and harmony through the composition, the balance of healthy vs. diseased and the color scheme that is chosen.

I invite you to spend some time thinking about what part of your practice makes you feel proud; what aspect of your work is most meaningful; what goals have you accomplished and where do you want to go in the future?  We can work together to create a piece of art that solidifies these accomplishments and dreams!

Please feel free to comment here or to contact me at Penny@DiagnosisART.com!

Also, Until I have this blog up and running, please visit my Facebook page to find out more or to see what is to come at the DiagnosisART! blog.

DiagnosisART! at Facebook

Cochlea Blood Supply