Santa Cruz physicians unveil their works of art.

Envision an art show that unites intricate woodcarvings, delicate photographs and detailed paintings created with the surgical precision of, well, a surgeon.

This September, Santa Cruz County physicians will showcase their creativity at the eighth annual Physicians’ Art & Music Show. Coordinated by the Santa Cruz County Medical Society and the Dominican Hospital Foundation in Santa Cruz, the show presents artwork by physicians in a range of media, including painting, photography, woodworking and sculpture.

The annual show is a good way to show the public and patients another side of the medical profession, according to Marcus Kwan, M.D., a retired general surgeon and Santa Cruz Medical Society executive director.

But as much as the show is an opportunity for doctors to display their work and unwind with pals, it is equally important in cultivating relationships with patients outside of the exam room, Kwan said.

“Our goal is to encourage an exchange between doctors and patients on a different level, because we think the doctor-patient relationship is vital,” he explained.

And if the goals of encouraging physicians to explore their artistic sides and public outreach weren’t enough, the show manages to be philanthropic every year as well. A charity benefit and reception (suggested $5 donation) on Friday, Sept. 11 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. will benefit the Dominican Pediatric Clinic and the Santa Cruz County branch of RotaCare® Bay Area, a nonprofit organization providing free medical clinics, primarily for children.

Woodcarver Lenny Gerstein, a semi-retired orthopedic surgeon, is one of the show exhibitors and organizers.

“I used to be Dr. Leonard Gerstein. Now I’m Lenny the woodworker,” he smiled.

A docent who teaches redwood ecology at Henry Cowell State Park in Felton, Gerstein carves birds and animals from old growth redwood he finds near the ocean after storms. Though he displays his artwork at local open studios and galleries throughout the year, the Santa Cruz physician show is a particular favorite, as it is a unique chance to see a compilation of artworks created specifically by fellow doctors.

“Physicians get to show that there’s more to being a doctor than just taking care of illness,” Gerstein said, “that many people are involved in art.”

For more information, contact the Santa Cruz Medical Society at (831) 479-7226, or visit their Web site at www.cruzmed.org.

- By Sheila Riley

Sheila Riley is a freelance writer in San Francisco.