More people are directly affected by drug interactions than we often realize, and the truth is, unless you’ve experienced it firsthand, it’s something you can’t fully understand. This harsh reality underscores the vital role of art in healthcare: it is a bridge, bringing scientific and medical knowledge to the public in a way that is accessible, engaging, and deeply human. Art helps transform complex, often intimidating research into something that resonates with people on a personal level, educating and empowering them to understand the world of science and medicine that affects their lives. We often hear about cutting-edge research in science, promising groundbreaking advancements. While these developments are exciting, there is a gap between the lab and the real world of healthcare. Here, too, art can serve as a translator, helping to explain complex medical concepts and research in a way that captivates and informs the public. Art has the unique power to not only communicate knowledge but also to make it more relatable and compelling, reaching beyond the confines of academia and laboratories. Yet, as much as art has the power to educate, it is important to be mindful of its limitations, especially in a medical setting. While the presence of art in hospitals can sometimes offer solace, it doesn't always make patients feel better. Art can evoke emotions, stir memories, or offer moments of escape, but it does not replace the need for effective medical care. We must be cautious not to oversell its benefits, especially when patients may be struggling with deep uncertainty or pain. Furthermore, the allure of cutting-edge research can sometimes cause confusion. New treatments or discoveries that sound revolutionary may not yet be available or applicable in everyday healthcare, leaving patients and their families grappling with hopes that are premature or unrealistic. Art can help to manage these expectations by providing clarity, grounding the conversation in the present realities of medical care, and reminding us that progress, while inevitable, is often a slow and nuanced process.

In the intersection of art and healthcare, the role of the artist is crucial—not just as a creator of beauty, but as a communicator, a guide, and sometimes, a reality-checker. Art’s power lies not only in its ability to comfort or uplift, but in its capacity to illuminate, educate, and provoke thoughtful reflection on the intersection of science, medicine, and the human experience.

– Crafted following a dialogue between Natalia Marin, Anna Dumitriu and Alex May, this text delves into the inspiration behind their work, “Physic-AI Garden”.