Medical and scientific illustrators combine their knowledge of the biological sciences with their artistic skills. They make illustrations of surgical procedures, human anatomy, plants and animals. These illustrations are used in audio-visual presentations for teaching and lecturing, as well as in medical and scientific handbooks.
Medical and scientific illustrators also work for lawyers (producing exhibits in court cases) and doctors. They can also draw 'story-boards' that may serve as guides on movies or TV series, for example, where actors are placed in an emergency room. Advanced computer software is used, which allows ideas to be presented on the Internet or e-mailed between clients.
Medical and scientific illustrators often provide schools, hospitals and medical institutions with training-related posters, for example, a dentist's posters of tooth decay or gum infections or a clinic sister's illustrations of sexually transmitted diseases.
Satisfying Aspects
- gaining extensive knowledge about human anatomy and biology
- knowing that your work is helping to make people aware of various diseases and how to prevent them
- putting creative talent to useful purpose
Demanding aspects
- concentrating on fine details
- causing eyestrain
- having to work very hard, as it is not easy to survive as an artist.
Requirements
- aptitude for art, science and biology
- eye for detail
- steady hand
- good eyesight
- able to concentrate for long periods
- excellent observation skills
- patient and persistent
- perfectionist, meticulously accurate
School Subjects
National Senior Certificate meeting diploma requirements for a diploma course
Each institution will have its own minimum entry requirements.
Compulsory Subjects: Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Life Sciences
Recommended Subjects: Visual Arts
Training
Diploma: suitable courses in Biotechnology, Biomedical Technology etc - all the universities of technology.
Employer
- government and private hospitals;
- clinics
- medical and science book publishers
Contact
Any of the above-mentioned potential employers, universities of technology or colleges