TB Relief Artist Series: Technology Inspiring Art Inspiring Change

Written by Katie Robertson - Public Relations Account Executive

It is ironic that tuberculosis (TB), formerly known as the “artist’s disease,” has shifted in public perception to a taboo subject deemed too ugly for any medium, let alone visual art. However, when TB and its impact are left out of public conversation, it slows our progress in stopping a disease that remains the world's deadliest despite being both preventable and treatable. 

This challenge is what artist and TB survivor Paulina Siniatkina has taken on, with various art pieces across several media focused on exploring the experience of TB and how its existence impacts our collective humanity. Her latest work, a video experience titled “Breathe In,” compiles dozens of X-ray images into one breathing body in a reflection of our collective vulnerability and shared humanity. 

Inspiration in Advancement

Fittingly, the ways in which this piece came together reflect many of the trends that have influenced the way we diagnose TB. The primary material used in “Breathe In,” digital radiographs, could not have been captured without the significant technological developments over the past several decades.

Inspiration for the work ca

me, not just from the similarities between the images, but also the differences. Viewers will notice the personal items – jewelry, buttons, pins, zippers – that distinguish the images from one another and provide the tiniest bit of insight into the life behind the X-ray. Until recently, this level of character from image to image would not have been possible. Earlier iterations of X-ray technology required patients to remove items like these or even strip naked for an image to be taken. The newer technology allows people to maintain a little more of their identity throughout the process, preserving traces of their everyday life within the medical image. 

Engagement in Community

Another element of technological advancement that played into the creation of the piece, though it is less visible in the final work, is portability. The images used in the piece were captured in Yola, Nigeria, a remote, rural community with limited access to healthcare resources. With the ultra-portable design of the IMPACT Wireless complete digital system, this diagnostic resource could be brought directly to the patients. In total, 64 chest images were used for the piece, and hundreds more patients were radiographed for early diagnosis of TB and other conditions.

The increase in accessibility of this technology has stirred up incredible excitement, both among those working to lessen the global impact of TB and the communities they service. Siniatkina notes that she continues to be encouraged by people’s openness to participate and by the growing curiosity around X-ray technology, which was once associated with stigma and fear.

“I was surprised at first that people were so open and trusting of this new technology coming into their communities, but then I realized that I would not be scared to do this X-ray if I were in their shoes,” Siniatkina says. “We think that people can never get used to these new ideas, new technologies, but we all have immense capability to adapt, especially when the changes are good and welcome.”

Change in Motion

Siniatkina’s observation marks an encouraging shift in the way TB is viewed, particularly given how enthusiastic participation from communities with high TB burden is critical in lessening the disease’s impact. However, there is still a long way to go.

In addition to her work with “Breathe In,” Siniatkina has used X-ray images for a variety of other pieces, including installations and paintings. She has also used medical equipment, such as vial racks and IV bags, in additional works, displaying the juxtaposition between the beauty of life and the harshness of disease and medicine.

Her work and ongoing advocacy continue to shed light on the ongoing struggles caused by TB, refusing to let the disease fall out of mainstream relevance. By presenting the conversation surrounding TB in a new and engaging way, Siniatkina hopes to reinvigorate a discussion that much of the world is content to let live in the past.

TB can be cured. It is an entirely preventable disease that should no longer be causing mass infection, let alone claiming over a million lives per year, but change can only happen if those with the power to cure the disease are just as invested in curing it as those affected.