"The role of the artist is to challenge, change and provoke science..."
J. McLachlan
art Rachael Allen
"In the anatomy labs, I focus on observing the way students interact with the embalmed and plastinated prosections, how they physically handle the specimens, the body language and facial expressions, the conversations that occur amongst peer groups and teaching staff, the conduct of all (living) present in the lab, and the manner of interaction with all teaching materials. During this time, I too experience heightened emotions associated by the materiality of the bodies, the anomalous encounter of life and death in close proximity, and the provocation of ethical issues."
From the book "Creative Arts in Humane Medicine", for publication 2013.
Rachael Allen
Currently artist in residence at three university anatomy labs in the
North East of England (Newcastle, Northumbria and Durham), the artist explores
the role of visual art in anatomy and medical pedagogy, while also situating her
practice within the Medical Humanities nationwide. 