Kingston University academic uses art to tackle menopause stigma

May 27, 2026

South London News Smart London Desk Edited By Jimmy Nsubuga

A Kingston University academic is using a unique blend of art and science to tackle the stigma surrounding menopause and women's health. Dr Francesca Arrigoni's groundbreaking work is set to feature in several major exhibitions this summer, aiming to raise vital public awareness.

Illuminating the 'manuscript of menopause'

Dr Arrigoni has created a stunning 40-page illuminated manuscript about menopause. It features intricate gold leaf and gouache illustrations, all based on research linking menopause to cardiovascular health. This creative approach aims to highlight that heart disease is a leading killer of women in the UK.

"Menopause was not given the attention it should have," she said. "When a woman experiences menopause and perimenopause, you realise that there is a serious lack of information available to the public."

Her upcoming solo exhibition, Undiminished: Rebalancing the Female Narrative of Menopause, will run from June 4 to July 27 at Kingston University’s Dorich House Museum. It will feature stained-glass windows designed to evoke sacred spaces, exploring themes of female agency and confidence in aging.

From lockdown doodles to national recognition

Dr Arrigoni's journey into combining art and science began during the Covid-19 pandemic. She found that drawing helped her teach physiology remotely more effectively. This led to a Masters in Illustration at Kingston University to explore neuroaesthetics and the power of STEAM in education.

Her hand-printed letterpress book, exploring narratives and stigmas around sexually transmitted infections (STIs), was recently purchased by the Wellcome Collection.

Immense privilege at Royal Society exhibition

Dr Arrigoni's work will also be showcased at the Royal Society’s Summer Science Exhibition. She taught herself copperplate engraving to study microscopic discoveries from 1665. The result is a kinetic sculpture combining etched forms, 17th-century visions, and fine-art prints.

"There’s no difference between science and art and that’s how it should be," Dr Arrigoni stated. "This stratification of going, 'This is arts and this is science, and never the twain shall meet', we find is very damaging to students.”

Author

South London News Smart London Desk Edited By Jimmy Nsubuga

From sustainable urban planning to AI-driven city services, the South London News Smart London Desk offers comprehensive coverage of how our environment is evolving. Our editorial staff provide analysis on urban innovation, green tech, and local infrastructure shifts, ensuring our readers understand the technologies shaping their future neighbourhoods.

Every report is produced under the rigorous oversight of a leadership team with decades of experience at Yahoo UK, Metro, and the Daily Mail. By bridging the gap between technical progress and daily life, our desk upholds the highest standards of journalistic integrity to provide an accurate, forward-looking perspective on our changing city.