A new painting inspired by the RCSI Declaration has been officially unveiled at RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences. The painting, by artist Mary A. Kelly, recognises and celebrates the symbolism of the white coat and the beginning of students’ academic journey, marking their new role as student health professionals.
The artwork ‘I make these promises solemnly, freely and upon my honour’ was created by Mary A. Kelly, winner of the RCSI Art Award 2019 in association with The Irish Times and the Royal Hibernian Academy (RHA) Annual Exhibition.
The painting was commissioned by RCSI to capture and to honour the ritual of the white coat ceremony, and the symbolism of the white coat. During the ceremony, students are invited to make a commitment to professionalism that mirrors the graduates’ declaration recited at their conferring day.
The declaration signals the responsibilities they must begin to undertake as future health professionals from the start of their academic training.
