BODY AS TOOL | Jonathan Tijerina

‘Body as Tool’ is a surrealist reinterpretation of traditional medical illustrations in the context of frequently reported concerns with modern medical paradigms. The key-winder and clockwork symbolize common components of burnout (e.g., lack of autonomy; loss of the ‘art of medicine’; a traditionally pervasive culture of overworking trainees). I drew heavily on influential anatomists Leonardo DaVinci and Dr. Henry Gray, as well as the techniques of surrealist artists, Max Ernst, Marie Cerminova (Toyen), and Dr. Fritz Kahn. I hope for this work to encourage self-contemplation and call attention to the need for healthy outlets with our medical audience. I also hope to prompt a consideration of the demands placed on healthcare professionals and so cultivate a more trusting relationship with our non-medical audience and patients.

Jonathan Tijerina is a resident physician in ophthalmology at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Miami, FL. He completed his MD at Stanford School of Medicine where his scholarly concentration in medical ethics and the humanities focused on artistic reinterpretation of archetypal anatomical illustrations in the context of modern physician burnout. The challenges of finding a sustainable balance in today's work-life of doctors and medical professionals remains a source of artistic inspiration (and near-daily frustration) for him today.

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