The workshop “Arts and Life” was facilitated by Prof. Dr. Carlos Centeno, with the support of co-facilitators Maria Arantzamendi and Vilma Tripodoro. The session explored the meaningful role of art in palliative care, particularly its capacity to give voice to human vulnerability, emotional experience, compassion, and dignity. Participants reflected on how artistic forms such as theatre can make visible the human dimensions of illness, care, suffering, and professional identity that may remain difficult to express through clinical language alone.
A central part of the workshop focused on the impact of theatre in palliative care education. Through the example of a theatrical performance, participants discussed how aesthetic experience can support emotional expression, reflection, and deeper understanding among students, health professionals, and educators. The session highlighted that art is not only a complementary activity but also a powerful educational and transformative tool, helping individuals connect with the origins, values, and humanistic foundations of palliative care.
