A syndrome through colours : discovering how graphic design can collaborate in showcasing a medical condition in order to translate it into an artistic practice and what can be learnt about this condition from such visual research

Abstract

This dissertation aims to research and discover more about a medical condition that poses various challenges. Thus, exploring how it can be intertwined with the practice of art to allow further knowledge on the subject. ‘Irritable Bowel Syndrome’ (IBS) is a chronic condition that many people suffer from daily, affecting the digestive system with multiple intestinal symptoms. In this dissertation, I will research a specific area within the field; this will not be the medical aspect but rather how one person can be affected by this condition on a social, physical and mental level. Having been diagnosed with this syndrome, and experienced many of the symptoms and lifestyle factors daily, the research conducted will be with my data. I will be the subject of testing to gather the research and information needed for this dissertation. Furthermore, the data collected will be used for the artistic aspect of this dissertation. The data collected will be produced in a visual journal; later, within the project, this data will be translated into an artistic practice for the public to engage with and interpret, allowing the audience to gain more information about what a diagnosed individual with this condition experiences.