Arthritis, Artists And Art Opporunities For Education

Abstract Background/Aims The role of art in rheumatology is under-investigated. Several well-known artists have suffered from rheumatic disease. Their insights and achievements potentially provide reassurance and encouragement to our patients. Creating art may also offer therapeutic benefits for patients. Finally, the artistic environment can affect mood and behaviour. We highlight several inspirational artists. Methods Four artists offer valuable insights: Michaelangelo (d. 1564) was able to master sculpture, painting and architecture despite hand osteoarthritis and persisted in working until his death, age 89. Pierre-Auguste Renoir (d. 1919) developed severe RA aged 50. He continued to paint for the rest of his life, being carried to outdoor scenes on a sedan and designing an innovative rolling canvas to complete some of his finest work. He painted on small pieces of wood at night to distract from his arthritic pain. Frida Kahlo (d.1954), the Mexican artist, experienced chronic generalised pain and fatigue in keeping with fibromyalgia. This was after a bus accident at eighteen resulted in multiple pelvic and vertebral fractures. Self-portraiture became the cornerstone of her bold art during the solitude of her convalescence. Maud Lewis (d.1970), the Canadian folk painter, had JIA in early childhood resulting in a limp and severe hand changes. She spent much time indoors due to her pain and the ridicule faced from her peers. She developed an eagerness for drawing; to the extent that she painted on any surface she could find of her small cottage. Results These artists’ own words reveal the resilience they gained from their art. Renoir stated: 'Out of doom and misery the most beautiful song may rise'. Lewis reported ‘As long as I’ve got a brush in front of me, I’m alright.’, whilst Kahlo was similarly quoted to say ‘I am broken. But I am happy to be alive as long as I can paint’. A small study in 2017 with 17 patients with RA showed improvement not only in hand function but also self-perception and quality of life after participating in daily art-based intervention (origami, painting and clay modelling) for four weeks. Furthermore, a common theme between these famous artists was how they favoured bright colours in their artwork, which may have positive effects on mood. Colouring can reduce stress in children in paediatric waiting rooms. Within other settings, research suggests that visual art depicting nature can reduce anxiety in emergency department waiting rooms. Conclusion Although exceptionally talented people, the artists discussed show the inspiring possibilities of creativity despite severe rheumatic disease. We suggest sharing these stories with our patients and considering further study into the therapeutic potential of creating art in rheumatic conditions. Attention should be paid to the artistic environment in which we see our patients. Disclosure S. Amar: None. M. Lloyd: None.