Increasing Public Awareness of Antimicrobial Resistance Through Art
Session Number
1
Advisor(s)
Dr. Sheila Wang
Location
IN2 Alpha Design Studio
Discipline
Business
Start Date
15-4-2026 10:15 AM
End Date
15-4-2026 11:00 AM
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an increasing global health threat caused by the overuse and misuse of antibiotics and other antimicrobial medications. Despite its implications for public health, there is limited awareness of AMR among the general public. This internship project looks at how visual art can serve as an effective communication tool for increasing the public’s understanding of antimicrobial resistance. In collaboration with Midwestern University, the Antimicrobial Stewardship Partnership, and Columbia College Chicago, a student art campaign was developed to encourage artists to create two-dimensional pieces of art that communicate the risks and societal impact of AMR. The project involved developing a structured judging rubric focused on public resonance, clarity, relevance to AMR, creativity, and visual presentation. Submissions were then evaluated to determine which strategies most effectively communicated these complex scientific concepts to a general audience. Through this project, insights were gained into how creative media can translate scientific issues into accessible public messages. The main goal of the results is to inform future public health outreach initiatives by demonstrating how art can be used to spark discussion, increase awareness, and encourage responsible antimicrobial use.
Increasing Public Awareness of Antimicrobial Resistance Through Art
IN2 Alpha Design Studio
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an increasing global health threat caused by the overuse and misuse of antibiotics and other antimicrobial medications. Despite its implications for public health, there is limited awareness of AMR among the general public. This internship project looks at how visual art can serve as an effective communication tool for increasing the public’s understanding of antimicrobial resistance. In collaboration with Midwestern University, the Antimicrobial Stewardship Partnership, and Columbia College Chicago, a student art campaign was developed to encourage artists to create two-dimensional pieces of art that communicate the risks and societal impact of AMR. The project involved developing a structured judging rubric focused on public resonance, clarity, relevance to AMR, creativity, and visual presentation. Submissions were then evaluated to determine which strategies most effectively communicated these complex scientific concepts to a general audience. Through this project, insights were gained into how creative media can translate scientific issues into accessible public messages. The main goal of the results is to inform future public health outreach initiatives by demonstrating how art can be used to spark discussion, increase awareness, and encourage responsible antimicrobial use.