This painting explores the unspoken elements of the clinical consultation, focusing on the gap between what patients present with and what patients may leave out. Inspired by my experiences across Year Two of my medical course, it reflects a growing awareness that silence, hesitation, and omission can hold as much meaning as spoken words – if not more.

The figure is partially turned away, with fragmented, layered brushstrokes across the body representing the complexity of lived experience that is not immediately visible to the clinician. Areas of concealment and abstraction symbolise the thoughts, emotions, and concerns that patients may choose not to disclose, whether through fear, stigma, or uncertainty.

I also wanted to creatively explore the value of curiosity – not only to gather information but as a tool to prompt what is left unspoken and only hinted at. The contrasting tones and textures reflect the tension between the observable and the hidden, highlighting the limitations of a purely biomedical approach.

Ultimately, this painting reflects my developing appreciation that consultations are not about uncovering everything –  but about creating a space where patients feel able to reveal what matters most, in their own time, feeling comfortable and at ease.