Visualising Menopause: Science, Symbolism, and Storytelling
Introduction
Menopause is a powerful and often misunderstood stage of life. As both a scientist and artist, I’ve embarked on an extended research project that explores menopause through the lens of cellular biology, historical symbolism, and personal experience. This work titled Metamorphosis, bridges women’s health, science communication, and visual storytelling, aiming to make the invisible visible.
We are on of only 5 species on the planet that experiences menopause. One hypothesis is that this enables females of the species to live longer, not dying in childbirth.
Can you guess the others?
They can be found on the page in homage to Boticelli’s Venus.
Inspired by Illuminated Manuscripts
Illuminated manuscripts represent one of the earliest and most captivating forms of visual storytelling—magnificent, sacred, and rich with symbolism. Long before the printing press or the scientific revolution, these manuscripts served as vital repositories of knowledge throughout the Middle Ages. Over time, images evolved to communicate complex ideas, becoming visual vessels for thought and belief.
Scientific Research and Clinical Accuracy
While it’s easy to find lists of menopause symptoms, deeper research—particularly through Maisie Hill’s work on perimenopause and a relevant Lancet paper—revealed the broader scope and complexity of the experience. To ensure accuracy, the script was reviewed by a clinical menopause specialist who runs dedicated clinics.
Artistic Process and Typography
Each symptom was illustrated using a “versal”—a decorative letter paired with imagery reflecting that experience. In most cases, a second image on the accompanying page further illustrated the emotional or physical impact. Typography became a crucial part of the storytelling. I deliberately avoided Gothic script, opting instead for a style reminiscent of 16th-century Italian manuscripts. Historically, Gothic script was viewed pejoratively by Italians, especially after the sacking of Rome by the Goths, in contrast to the more refined, curved Lombardic forms.
Inspired by alchemical texts and illuminated manuscripts that often read like intimate diary entries, I chose a script that feels handwritten, reflective, and historically grounded—yet accessible to a contemporary audience.
Painting was gouache, 22 carat gold leaf and ink on Khadi-Sun paper.
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Structure of the Manuscript
The manuscript is divided into three sections:
- Symptoms: hot flushes, changing appearance, insomnia
- You haven’t been feeling yourself lately: forgetfulness, brain fog, anxiety, rage
- Long term health risks: Bone mineral denisty, pelvic floor and cardiovascular disease
Conclusion
This project is about reclaiming the narrative around menopause—turning data into dialogue, and using art to reflect the lived experience of ageing, identity, and transformation. It invites viewers to see menopause not just as a medical condition, but as a deeply human journey.
FULL CONTENT SEE VIDEO BELOW:
A dust cover of ‘Women of a certain age’, was added to emphasis how this important stage in a womans life can be ignored or trivialised. Part of this project has been to remove that and illuminate; literally and figuratively, this transitionary period of life.