Lupus

For this pharmaceutical project, I was tasked with creating prosthetic lupus lesions that were medically accurate and suitable for close-up clinical photography. The brief required the work to clearly communicate the visual symptoms of lupus.

I began by researching reference imagery and clinical descriptions to understand the variation in lupus skin manifestations. I sculpted the lesions to sit subtly on the skin, using thin prosthetic appliances that allowed for soft, realistic edges and natural movement. I used probondos to create these lesions. I love using probondos as they are so quick to apply and last for hours even with movement and hot lights.

Colour was built in layers, combining muted reds, purples, and uneven pigmentation to mimic vascular changes and irritation commonly associated with lupus. The finish was kept semi-matte with selective sheen to suggest tenderness and compromised skin rather than injury. Throughout the process, accuracy and restraint were key, ensuring the prosthetics read clearly on camera while maintaining medical credibility.

The final result was a set of prosthetic lupus lesions that balanced realism with clarity, supporting the pharmaceutical narrative while remaining appropriate for both professional and patient-facing contexts.