This exhibition is a display of creative projects by 3rd and 5th year dental undergraduate students as part of a module titled ‘Humanities and the Transition to General Dental Practice’ led by Clinical Teacher Dr Preeti Vyas and curated by Dr Melissa Grant.

Scholars and experts in the fields of Fine Art, Photography and Poetry guided the students in workshops relating Humanities to improving Patient Care. Students explored themes such as what it means to be a professional through interpreting fine art, improving diagnostic skills through drawing, understanding healthcare in a broader context through photography and developing a more person-centred approach to care through studying and writing poetry. Relating these experiences to what it means to be a good dentist.  The final assignment was to explore the topic of failure and ambiguity by making an item in a medium of their choice in response to the module and their experiences as a dental student at the University of Birmingham.  The group exhibition features fine art, mixed media, poetry, paper works and lino printing.

Sincere thanks to;

Ms Kirsty Clarke, Student-Engagement Co-ordinator and artist, Barber Institute of Fine Arts

Mr Christopher Tinkler, Art Teacher and artist

Professor Damian Walmsley, Professor of Restorative Dentistry and photographer, University of Birmingham

Dr Betsy Porritt, Literary scholar and poet, University of Birmingham

Saira Hussain 5th BDS – Acrylic paint on Canvas

‘Beneath the Enamel’ 

This painting is inspired by a dental student’s journey through dental school. The student emerging from the varicoloured tooth symbolises the challenges and triumphs faced on the journey and the need for perseverance and resilience. It uses colour and brush strokes to capture changes in emotions, pathways, and personal growth.

Emelia Drinkwater 5th BDS – Clay model and Paper Mache

When making the project on the theme of ‘failure and ambiguity’ I found that dental students and crowns are funnily enough quite similar. Teeth may appear strong and aesthetic from the outside however the core can be weak and broken down, yet you would not realise without some exploration. As dental students, we have knowledge and skill that provide a strong basis, however we are constantly learning and growing and occasionally need to lean on our tutors before we can become confident and qualified dentists.

Alexandra Ramcharitar 5th BDS – Mixed Media Clay and Acrylic

This piece is a mixed media clay and acrylic paint scene that depicts a dental student in scrubs amidst a sterile, monotonous clinical environment. She is gazing out the window into the beautiful, coloured galaxy. I was inspired to make this piece as many of us (not just dental students) forget that there is a whole world outside of our professions waiting to be explored. These days it’s too easy to get caught up in the daily hustle so sometimes we all need a pause to admire the world around us and appreciate everything this life has to offer.  Always remember you are more than whatever label you have on yourself. It is never too late to try a new hobby and immerse ourselves in the galaxy of new experiences this life has to offer. This is the first piece I have ever done so I hope some part of it is able to resonate with you as it did with me!

Sumiayah Rahman 3rd BDS – origami

This origami tooth reflects the intricate yet robust nature of the human dentition. At first glance, the model may look haphazardly thrown together, but it took much time and effort to carefully curate each fold. Similarly, several years are needed for the whole permanent dentition to form and erupt. Despite the lengthy building time, the strongest substance in the body (enamel) can be destroyed with something people would assume to be minor – sugar, and my model is no different, in that it would be ruined by the smallest amount of fluid. The aim of this was to show how great care must be taken to maintain our teeth, although they are strong they are not everlasting during life and can gradually deteriorate without you noticing. 

Shirin Anari 3rd BDS – Lino Print

The Helping Hand

This piece represents the most important aspect of dentistry- helping others and putting patient needs first. But also, as I have gained more experience as a dental student, it represents the fact as dental students and dental professionals sometimes we need a helping hand whether that be a second opinion or accessing support for mental and physical wellbeing.

Christy Ng 3rd BDS – poem

For my creative piece, I decided to do some creative writing. Having particularly enjoyed the poetry workshop, learning to write haikus and erasure poetry, I decided to take inspiration and write a sonnet. My sonnet follows the traditional Shakespearean form, consisting of 14 lines structured as 3 quatrains which expand about the topic, and 1 rhyming couplet to conclude. There is a ABAB CDCD EFEF GG rhyme scheme, where alternating lines rhyme aside from the final couplet. Sonnets are written with iambic pentameter, and usually read in rhythm with an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable pattern, giving a more musical feel. The Special Study Module has reminded me of the importance for reflection. From this, I decided to write my sonnet based on beginning my journey to studying dentistry and I hope you have an enjoyable read