Anatomy inspired creative pieces based on clinical practice experiences: Oral presentation at Anatsoc Virtual Winter Conference 6-8th January 2021 (Newcastle, UK) (S14:3, 13:55 Friday 8th Jan 2021)

Medical students in their first year of study undertake a variety of disciplines, with biomedical sciences and clinical placements delivered side by side, but not always expressly interlinked. However, this does not mean that students do not make links between disciplines. An insight into the learning process of our students is gained when they undertake creative work. Year 1 students at Bristol Medical School are asked to produce creative pieces based on clinical practice experience during their placements. This is done as a reflective learning process and includes a narrative alongside the creative work. Anatomy links and imagery are often seen in these works, especially of the cardiorespiratory and musculoskeletal systems. The heart, lungs and hands are particularly commonly represented. In using anatomical imagery within their creative works, medical students demonstrate learning about their own experiences, and the patients’ narratives, as well as noticing anatomical changes, for example a student considering the psychosocial impact of ulnar deviation of the hands. This reveals a powerful, deep understanding of how anatomical changes can impact a person either through damage, disease or aging. It also helps harness students’ creativity to embed the wider importance of anatomy in their future practice. All students have consented to their artwork and parts of the narrative being included.