Somatoforms
6 April – 1 May 2009
Neil Healey
Bachelor of Creative Arts (Hons)
Artist Statement:
The question of how to explore the intricate nature of the human body while simultaneously embarking on a journey to discover new insights into art has been one of the great paradoxes to confront western artists since the beginning of the twentieth century.1
Somatoforms is an extension of an exhibition held at the Caloundra Regional Art Gallery last year entitled Body-Language. The work is informed by both an extensive personal history of working in hospital and related health care systems, as well as medical imagery and diagrams.
The medical model of understanding the body is based upon surveillance: the body under the scrutiny of many types of recording technologies which feed data bases, which in turn serve to classify and define the boundaries between wellness and illness.
Much of this data is converted into clinical knowledge through visual interpretation by means of medical imaging technology. Medicine is now free to slice and explore the body without the use of the scalpel and employ the medical gaze with unprecedented intensity.
Beyond the original diagnostic intentionality of the scan dwell the possibility of new meanings: which become more illuminated when they are re-presented outside their usual cultural domains. Within this shift, visual knowledge can become entwined with symbolic knowledge and a rich dialogue between the body and art is generated which is simultaneously contemporary and historical.
A closing reception to be advised. The reception and exhibition are open to the public and free of charge. Light refreshments will be served. All are welcome to attend.
Admission is free to all galleries at the Faculty of Creative Arts.
Gallery Opening Hours are 9am–5pm, Monday to Friday
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Location:
FCA Gallery
Faculty of Creative Arts
Upstairs, Building 25
University of Wollongong
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Parking: Pay and Display parking is available in the Western Carpark for visitors to the University. View Maps
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For further information or sales inquiries contact the
School of Art and Design, Faculty of Creative Arts
Phone: 02 4221 5853 or 02 4221 3996
Email: aandd_info@uow.edu.au
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