Donna Frost

Chapter 2 52 various dimensions of self (see also aspect 2 , ‘Professional artistry is demonstrated by professionals well prepared for the encounter’). As Cherry and Higgs ( 2011 ) also emphasize, following Palus and Horth ( 2002 ), ideas for action in the midst of the dance of practice do not arrive fully formed and correct. There is interplay, improvisation and experimentation necessary and ends and means are pursued simultaneously (Schön, 1987 ) as each practice encounter is given unique form. ‘Professional artistry [...] allows nurses with expertise to dance between imagination, conventions, ‘truths’, and the local situation,’ (Titchen, 2009 , p. 233 ), moving between the whole and the part with balance. McCormack and Titchen ( 2006 ) and Titchen and McCormack ( 2008 , 2010 ) argue, in fact, that mindful, intentional action in the midst of practice, with moral and transformative intent, is not possible without professional artistry. It is, in this view, professional artistry that enables praxis. This is the case in nursing and healthcare, but also for examplewhen a more experienced practitioner is coaching or guiding a colleague and helping them to learn from and in practice. It is also the case in practice development and particular kinds of research practice, where practitioners are working towards transforming understandings, practices and contexts. This aspect of professional artistry is present as both attribute and consequence: perceiving the professional situation holistically and responding creatively and critically is indicative of professional artistry; as the professional responds creatively, critically and holistically their repertoire of responses is expanded. 6 . Professional artistry contributes to human flourishing Moral intent. Hope kindled. Creates chances, holds space. Enables growth. All sources in which the concept of professional artistry is used, either directly or implicitly, associate professional artistry with practice which is beneficial for the client or person receiving care. At a minimum professional artistry contributes to safe, effective, and importantly, individualised care. Most sources, however, consider professional artistry to enable the kind of practice which enables a transformation of the situation, or the experience of the situation. Practice which is graceful (Tasker & Titchen, 2016 ), which creates hope and encouragement (eg. Chan, 2014 ), opportunities and options which were not there before the professional encounter. Callahan ( 1990 ) describes the artistry of nursing thus: “Just as the singer adds her