Field Notes: At it’s essence this is an empactful yet simple story about what it’s like to live with rheumatoid arthritis. Real patients created the clay characters, adding to the authenticity of the story.
The Chilean government has introduced a powerful new campaign to raise awareness about rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic condition that affects the lives of millions around the world. In a collaborative effort with creative agency VML Chile and Oscar-winning animation studio PunkRobot, the initiative centers on a charming, animated stop-motion film that depicts life for a pottery teacher living with rheumatoid arthritis. The story is brought to life using clay characters crafted by real patients with the condition, blending authenticity with emotional storytelling.
The film tells the story of a dedicated crafts teacher who continues to inspire her students despite the visible and painful impact of arthritis. The animation uses symbolic visual cues, such as cracks forming on her hands, to convey the physical toll of the disease in a subtle yet emotionally resonant way. This participatory approach gave patients a role not only in shaping the narrative but also in benefiting from clay therapy, which supports both emotional well-being and pain management.
By focusing on holistic treatment strategies that include physiotherapy, kinesiology, and The Chilean government has introduced a powerful new campaign to raise awareness about rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic condition that affects the lives of millions around the world. In a collaborative effort with creative agency VML Chile and Oscar-winning animation studio PunkRobot, the initiative centers on a charming, animated stop-motion film that depicts life for a pottery teacher living with rheumatoid arthritis. The story is brought to life using clay characters crafted by real patients with the condition, blending authenticity with emotional storytelling.
Nino Goldberg, from VML explains, “The aim of the campaign was to place patients at the center of the message, celebrating their resilience and strength.creative therapy, the campaign promotes broader understanding and care options for rheumatoid arthritis. It seeks to educate the public, reduce stigma, and empower patients to seek integrated support.”
