Experiencing art

As a retired museum curator, I was pleased to read that reflection on works of art is part of the curriculum for UW medical students “Oregon medical students taught compassion,” March 27, 2018).

But I gathered from the article that these reflections are based solely on images of artworks, not on a student’s experience with an actual work of art. Viewing an image of an artwork, be it computerized or printed, is not the same as encountering it in its actual state. I would encourage the students to take this activity a step further by reporting on their encounter with works of art in our community. For example, there is currently a terrific exhibition on pop art at the Jundt Art Museum, which includes numerous original works of art that merit contemplation and would thereby improve observational skills.

Janet Grossman

Spokane