We are fascinated by the contents of our complex and fragile bodies.
Anatomical art captures the shapes, structures and textures of the organs and tissues that are hidden beneath our skin. Physicians, surgeons, artists and printers have developed diverse tools and techniques to represent the layers of the three-dimensional.
Representing the human body is also a question of power. Anatomical illustrations attempt to communicate objective truths about the body, but they also expose questions around identity and consent. Whose bodies are being used, and who controls how they are depicted?
In this exhibition, contemporary artworks in a range of media from glass to ceramic, performance to sculpture are displayed alongside historical books and drawings to offer personal and emotional reflections on medical representations of the human body. Providing a current perspective on the medical objects, and contemplating our complex relationship to our bodies today, are contemporary artists Andrew Carnie, Amanda Couch, Adelaide Damoah, Tamsin van Essen, Rebecca D Harris, Mary Reid Kelley and Patrick Kelley, Sofie Layton, Lucy Lyons, Liz Orton, Lori E Allen, Bee Flowers, Angela Palmer, and Ruth Uglow.
Visiting
Our exhibitions are free to visit Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm, until 8pm on the first Thursday of the month* and for other evening events. Pre-booking is not required but if you are planning to visit as a group of six or more please get in touch in advance to arrange your visit. Email us: history@rcplondon.ac.uk. Check planned closure days before your visit.
The RCP is fully wheelchair accessible. For accessibility information please see the main RCP website
Telephone: +44 (0)20 3075 1543 Email: history@rcplondon.ac.uk twitterfacebook