The Art of Anatomy

(William Rush, Model, Sphenoid Bone free-standing, ca. 1808, Wood and paint
38 x 21 x 17 in.)

Last month, my friends Gerry, Joanna, and I saw a wonderful show in the Philadelphia Academy of Fine Arts' Fisher Brooks Gallery. Entitled "Anatomy/Academy," the show deals with the confluence of medical science and the visual arts. The site eloquently states:

Anatomy/Academy will be the first exhibition to focus on how Philadelphia’s dynamic art and science communities, and in particular the curriculum of the Pennsylvania Academy, fostered knowledge of the human body. Rather than dwell in separate realms these communities have often collaborated on and shared discoveries, transformed the attitudes of the public towards mental and physical health, and challenged conceptions about beauty.

Alongside Duchamp's famous "Nude Descending a Staircase" and Thomas Eakins' "Gross Clinic" are a deftly-selected collection of medical diagrams and anatomical models. Especially impressive to me were the giant bone models by William Rush, whose detailed sculptures were made at a startling size. Also noteworthy was an oversized anatomical model of a hand, made of papier mache and delicately labeled.

Very worthwhile show for both Philadelphians and New Yorkers. Hurry, though: this show ends on April 17.