A Positive Outlook, 2024

A Positive Outlook, 2024

HIV; AIDS

Artist statement:

When it comes to HIV/AIDS most of the material I see is about how to avoid contracting the disease or the dangers and problems associated with the issues of contracting the disease. When learning from the nursing students, I learned that HIV and AIDS symptoms can be treated and while it won't make the disease go away it can be managed and from what I understand could keep HIV from progressing into AIDS. To that end I wanted to make a piece of art in the style of World War II propaganda posters featuring a strong call to action on behalf of the viewer. I think that more posters like this could be a positive call to action will encourage people to seek out treatment.

Medical description:

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a result of getting infected by a virus that attacks specifically CD4+ T lymphocytes. These cells are especially important for fighting off infection which causes an increased risk for illness and cancers. HIV can be spread by coming in contact with someone’s body fluids such as vaginal fluids, semen, breast milk, or blood. HIV is a multi-system illness that affects the whole body. This illness has different stages such as primary infection, chronic/latent, and AIDS. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a chronic condition which is caused by HIV. The illness damages the immune system to an extreme extent causing smaller illnesses and opportunistic pathogens to become very serious infections. The patient should also be informed about pre-exposure prophylaxis, which is a medication that helps prevent HIV infection for their partner. Overall, patient education is an essential part of ensuring that the patient is treated properly.

Thurber , Trey

2024

Diaz, Kimberly; Erck, McKenna; Loza, Karen; Mendoza, Carolina

In Copyright- This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights.

Watercolor and ink on paper ; 18 x 24 in.