Volume 8 • 2021 • Issue 2

“We are assigned researchers who are open to being featured in our work,” they explain. Each story is well researched. “We start with some background reading, a thorough interview with the researcher and a visit to the lab or hospital,” describes Ha. “But my last lab visit had to be done virtually because of the COVID-19 restrictions.” Based on the interview, the artists first identify the key points that they want to develop and then move on to the design. This involves creating the storyboard and laying out the page. For example, in his story about Dr. Jocelyne Feine and her research on edentulism, Ha cleverly focused on her signature eyeglasses throughout the comics, thus weaving a common thread into the story. The comics created during this residency cover a wide range of research topics: oral ecology, access to care, patient’s experience, polyphenols, periodontics and implantology, to name just a few. The artistic residency, which was originally a one-year contract, has been extended for another year. “From experience, I know that there can sometimes be challenges working with researchers,” points out Patenaude-Monette. “They may have trouble seeing their work depicted in a popular format, like comics. Some may not want to see their research oversimplified or are hesitant to show their work in this format, wary Learn more about the RSBO Art & Science project and access the comics at rsbo.ca/art-et-science For over 25 years, the Network for oral and bone research ( Réseau de recherche en santé buccodentaire et osseuse [RSBO]) has been active in Quebec’s scientific environment. The RSBO comprises over 100 researchers mainly from the University of Montreal, Laval University and McGill University as well as their affiliated institutions. The RSBO experts perform basic, clinical or outcome research ranging from genetics to public health, from microbiology to tissue engineering and biomaterials. The mission of the RSBO is to develop and disseminate new knowledge concerning oral- and bone- related health, and reduce health inequalities and promote the quality of life of the population of Quebec. In addition to providing financial support to researchers, students and trainees, the RSBO strives to disseminate important findings to health professionals and the public. For further information, visit www.rsbo.ca and follow the RSBO on social media. of what their peers may think,” he says. “But so far, the collaboration with RSBO researchers has been excellent. The researchers have been engaged and are very supportive of the project, especially when they see the final product.” “Comics are not always considered a serious artistic medium,” adds Patenaude-Monette. He says that comics are associated mostly with youth literature and are marked by themes of comedy and humour. “A common stereotype is that cartoonists only draw funny cartoons and superheroes!” However, he explains how humour—when used appropriately—can be a very effective educational tool. “When you use humour to help readers understand the key concepts of a research, you can make a complicated topic more engaging and accessible.” I ssues and P eople 30 | 2021 | Issue 2