While medical illustration dates back to the ancient Greeks, it’s of course widely held that Leonardo DaVinci (1452-1519) is the true father of the field, which evolved into the modern profession thanks to 19th century German artist named Max Brodel who was inspired to pursue medical illustration at Johns Hopkins, where he created and defined today’s pen and ink techniques, and went on to found the first school of medical illustration. Today, five master’s degree programs in North America are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). The scientific side of the curriculum includes coursework in basic anatomy, pathology, microanatomy, physiology, embryology, and neuroanatomy. Artistic classes include color theory, instructional design, photography, interactive media development, 3-D modeling and web design, along with traditional drawing and computer applications, and can also include specialized applied art courses such as surgical illustration. Increasingly, those who enter the field elect to also pursue a PhD in a related scientific subject; regardless, keeping one’s certification current requires the completion of Continuing Medical Education credits every five years. The Association of Medical Illustrators—founded in 1947—reports that the field remains competitive and in demand, with the expansion of medical knowledge ranging from the human genome to new robotic surgical techniques.
