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RACS ASC feature
Talent on display in virtual art gallery As part of the RACS ASC 2021 we displayed a virtual gallery with artwork by our talented members.
Mr David Freedman General Surgery, Victoria I worked as a rural general surgeon based in Swan Hill from 1978 until 2010 after gaining my Fellowship in 1974. General Surgery is at times a stressful occupation, especially when dealing with emergencies in a rural setting. I found painting very relaxing – it allowed an escape into another world. For most of my professional life I have painted en plein air (outdoors) as a hobby. Retirement allowed more freedom and energy to pursue this, and two years ago I published a book entitled Plein Air Painting: General Principles and Tips for Beginners. Last year, Richard Steele, Gavin Fry and I decided to collaborate to celebrate the beauty and diversity of Australia’s birdlife, culminating in a book entitled Australia’s Birds, for which I painted all 240 illustrations. Painting requires a sharp eye and a deft hand, as does surgery. The best results require an adherence to and understanding of basic principles, and a stepwise approach for both disciplines. As you develop a deeper understanding with experience, you are able to refine your skills. There is much in common but perhaps the biggest difference is the sense of freedom involved. In painting, failures do not matter. A painting can be wiped off, a piece of paper torn up and you are responsible to no one but yourself. This is a liberating feeling after a long surgical career.
