A Sketch of the Universe: Art, Science and the Influence of D’Arcy Thompson
D’Arcy Wentworth Thompson (1860-1948) was a pioneering Edinburgh-born biologist whose theories about the growth of organisms had a profound impact on 20th century art.
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 10am - 5pm; Sunday: 12pm - 5pm
Who is this for? - All
Dates: 19 November 2016 - 19 February 2017
Cost: Free
His ground-breaking book On Growth and Form was first published in 1917, but its influence stretched far beyond Thompson’s own lifetime. It laid the foundations for the future study of mathematical biology and provided the inspiration for generations of artists to explore its ideas. Thompson’s legacy unites these seemingly opposite fields. As the art critic Herbert Read told him, “you have built the bridge between science and art”.
In 2011 the University of Dundee Museum Services received a grant from the Art Fund RENEW scheme to develop a collection of artworks inspired by D’Arcy Thompson. This exhibition showcases the highlights of the collection, with works by modern and contemporary artists including Henry Moore, Victor Pasmore, Wilhelmina Barns-Graham, Will Maclean, Susan Derges and Daniel Brown.
Four star review from The List
Four star review from The Scotsman
Spotlight tours
Join one of our excellent guides on a spotlight tour of our exhibitions. There is no need to book the tours for groups under 10 people. Please meet your guide at reception.
A portable loop system is available to amplify the speaker. The fm loop system is compatible with hearing aids with a T-switch and can be used with headphones.Fridays, 11am and 3pm
Saturdays, 11am and 3pm
Suggested donation of £2.