0005 537H Humanities
Art and Medicine

Instructor(s): Peter G. Tuteur, M.D. Associate Professor of Medicine Director, Pulmonary Function Laboratory Student Coordinators: Ms. Amelia Drace Ms. Leslie Neems

Course summary:

This course is designed for students to develop observational skills through viewing works of art. Structured visual analysis will be a primary tool used to improve ability to recognize and scrutinize visual cues. Initially, the images viewed will be selected to contain specific components conducive to developing these skills. Students will view multiple works of art and share observations in group discussions. How individuals attach meaning to visual images will be discussed.
Through a series of themed sessions, students will view works of art relating to health and health status, social and economic status, depiction of healers/health workers, and portrayal of the human body. Sessions will be held at the St. Louis Art Museum; students will use both the main galleries and special study rooms to view works. A private collection may be viewed, as well. Each session will begin with a discussion of the relevance of the previous class to recent experiences.

Teaching objectives:

Develop observational skills potentially crucial to medical practice.
Increase students’ ability to discuss visual observations.
Analyze and contextualize medically related images.

Course requirements:
Attendance at all class sessions and participation in discussions.
Thought exercises on relevance of material to recent experiences.
Completion of the course evaluation form.

Class Format:

Discussion

Time:

3:15-5:00

Date:

1/21/2010
1/28/2010
3/18/2010
3/25/2010
3/18/2010
4/15/2010


Location:

Various St. Louis Museums of Art